MEMPHIS, TN — A suspect wanted in connection with a high-profile downtown shooting that left one dead and injured Houston rapper Sauce Walka has been found deceased in Texas, authorities confirmed Monday. Jayden Dandridge, 21, who faced first-degree murder charges for the March 22 attack outside the Westin Hotel, was discovered dead in Houston under undisclosed circumstances.
The violent incident unfolded at 2:42 p.m. near the FedEx Forum on Lt. George W. Lee Avenue, where gunfire erupted in broad daylight. Responding officers found 27-year-old Leteroian Hunt fatally wounded and rapper Albert “Sauce Walka” Mondane, 34, nursing a gunshot to his thigh. Surveillance footage helped identify Dandridge and 22-year-old Kevin Brown as primary suspects, prompting a multi-state manhunt.
With Dandridge’s unexpected death, law enforcement has intensified efforts to locate Brown, who remains at large on charges including first-degree murder and firearm-related felonies. Court documents reveal Brown is also wanted for allegedly stealing property valued between 10,000−60,000—a detail suggesting possible robbery motives behind the shooting.
The crime scene’s proximity to the entertainment district has raised concerns about downtown safety, with business owners reporting declining foot traffic since the incident. “This wasn’t some back alley—it happened steps from our NBA arena,” said local shopkeeper Marcus Webb. Meanwhile, Hunt’s family has established a memorial fund for his three children, while Sauce Walka continues recovery after being discharged from Regional One Health.
Memphis PD’s Homicide Unit is collaborating with Houston authorities to determine whether Dandridge’s death resulted from foul play or other causes. Investigators urge anyone with information on Brown’s whereabouts to contact Crime Stoppers at 901-528-CASH, emphasizing the suspect should be considered armed and dangerous.
As forensic teams analyze ballistic evidence from both crime scenes, this case highlights growing tensions between law enforcement and Memphis’ hip-hop community following multiple recent shootings involving artists. The police department plans to increase patrols in the entertainment district ahead of the upcoming NBA playoffs.
