Tragic news is emerging from Memphis as reports circulate that Mario Bradley, an affiliate of the well-known rap label PaperRoute Empire (PRE), has been shot in the spine.

According to information reaching USACommunityNews, Bradley’s own family members have confirmed the incident, alleging that the shooting was carried out by individuals believed to be close friends.

Details surrounding the exact circumstances remain limited, but the revelation that suspected friends were involved has sent shockwaves through both the local community and the wider fan base of PaperRoute Empire.

PRE, founded by the late Young Dolph, has long been a cornerstone of Memphis rap, producing a roster of talent while navigating the city’s often volatile mix of music success and street tensions.

In a trending video now circulating online, Bradley can be seen lying on a hospital bed, audibly crying out in pain. His voice—strained, weak, yet filled with raw emotion—has deeply moved viewers and fueled conversations about betrayal, trust, and the dangers faced by those connected to the street-oriented rap scene.

A Violent Blow to the PRE Family

For PaperRoute Empire supporters, the news carries added weight. The label has already suffered the devastating loss of its founder, Young Dolph, who was shot and killed in November 2021. Many feel that this latest act of violence underscores the ongoing danger that shadows the lives of those in and around the Memphis rap scene, even after commercial success.
Betrayal at the Center

The claim that Bradley was shot by people he considered close friends has particularly resonated online. Social media users have expressed outrage, noting how jealousy, resentment, and hidden rivalries can turn deadly. In communities where loyalty is prized, the idea of being harmed by someone within one’s circle feels like the deepest possible wound.
Comments across platforms have echoed the sentiment that sometimes those closest to you can be the ones to harm you most. As one user wrote, “It’s not always your enemies—it’s the ones who smile with you, eat with you, and still envy you.”

Condition and Recovery

While the video confirms Bradley is alive, the nature of his injuries—specifically to the spine—has raised fears about possible paralysis or long-term disability. Family members have not publicly disclosed his medical prognosis, but the emotional distress in the footage suggests that his road to recovery could be long and challenging.
Community Reactions

The incident has prompted fresh calls for unity, healing, and an end to cycles of violence. Musicians, fans, and locals have taken to social media to send prayers for Bradley’s recovery, while also demanding accountability for those responsible.
As of now, no official police statement has been released regarding arrests or suspects. However, the allegation that friends were involved will likely intensify calls for justice from both the family and the PRE community.

This story remains developing, and updates are expected as more information emerges about the investigation and Bradley’s condition.