Gunfire Erupts At Burger Joint Opening Honoring Nipsey Hussle, Rapper Murdered By Gun Violence, Leaving One Dead, Two Injured

A festive grand opening in Long Beach turned tragic when gunfire erupted nearby, leaving one person dead and two others injured just hours after crowds gathered to celebrate the launch of Marathon Burger, the new eatery honoring the late rapper Nipsey Hussle.

Police confirmed that multiple shots were fired roughly half a block from the restaurant on Tuesday evening, plunging the area into chaos as emergency crews rushed to the scene. One victim was pronounced dead, while two others were transported to local hospitals with injuries. Their conditions have not yet been released.

Earlier in the day, the ribbon-cutting ceremony had drawn major attention, including an appearance by hip-hop icon Snoop Dogg, who posed for photos and greeted fans. Authorities stressed that Snoop Dogg had already left the area before the shooting occurred and was not involved in the incident.

Law enforcement officials say there is currently no confirmed connection between the shooting and the grand opening festivities, despite the close proximity in time and location. Witnesses reported hearing rapid gunfire before seeing people flee the area in panic.

The shooting casts a dark shadow over what was meant to be a celebratory moment for the community, as Marathon Burger was launched as a tribute to Nipsey Hussle, who also lost his life to gun violence.