On May 10, 2025, the Chicago rap community suffered a devastating blow with the fatal shooting of 31-year-old rapper Munna Duke and his associate, known as Younggin, near Broadway and Rosemont. A third person was injured in the incident, though their identity and condition have not been disclosed.
As of now, no arrests have been made, and the motive behind the shooting remains unclear. The deaths mark yet another tragic chapter in the persistent violence plaguing Chicago’s hip-hop scene, particularly among those tied to the late rapper King Von.
The shooting took place in the early morning hours of May 10, just one day before Mother’s Day, casting a shadow over what should have been a time of celebration. Reports indicate that Munna Duke had posted a story on his social media just six hours before the incident, highlighting the abruptness of the tragedy. News of the deaths spread quickly online, with associates confirming Munna Duke’s passing through heartfelt posts.
Munna Duke, a Chicago native from the O Block neighborhood, was a rising figure in the city’s rap scene. Though not biologically related to King Von, who was killed in 2020, Munna considered him a brother and was a key member of Von’s inner circle. In interviews with DJ Smallz, Munna spoke fondly of Von, describing him as a “genuine person” and a “real stand-up guy” who valued loyalty. Munna carved out his musical path with his most notable track, “12 A.M.,” which marked his debut in the industry.
In his personal life, Munna Duke had recently become a father, welcoming a child with the former partner of Dthang, the late brother of rapper Lil Durk. This connection deepened his ties within Chicago’s prominent rap networks.
In the months leading up to his death, Munna Duke appeared to be distancing himself from street life. Commentators noted that he had stepped back from online conflicts, instead sharing glimpses of a more positive lifestyle, focusing on earning money and occasionally posting in Muslim attire.
However, his reputation as an “enforcer” in Chicago’s streets lingered, with his name linked to past incidents. As one observer said,
“You might get to the point where you pushing peace… but that’s just you. You got to remember it’s shit you done to people before you change your life, and people don’t forget about that.”
The deaths of Munna Duke and Younggin fit into a grim pattern of violence surrounding King Von’s associates. Since Von’s death in November 2020, many from his circle have either been killed or incarcerated. One commentator reflected,
“When Von was alive, it seemed like everybody he hung with not here no more.”
Munna Duke’s death at the age of 31 leaves behind a grieving community and a young child who will grow up without a father. As an artist, a friend to King Von, and a figure in Chicago’s rap scene, his loss resonates deeply.
As authorities continue their investigation, the deaths of Munna Duke and Younggin stand as a call to address the root causes of this relentless cycle of tragedy in Chicago. For now, the rap community mourns yet another talent lost too soon.
