What we now know about Young Dolph’s death
Adolph Thornton Jr., also known as Young Dolph, was shot and killed in 2021 at Makeda’s Cookies on Airways Boulevard. His sister Carlisa Thornton urged the public to remember who he was and not focus on those involved in his death. (Courtesy MSCS)
After three years of questions, speculation and internet sleuthing into the death of Young Dolph, evidence offered in court suggests the Memphis rapper was the victim of a contract killing connected to a rival record label.
Adolph Thornton Jr., also known as Young Dolph, was shot and killed in 2021 at Makeda’s Cookies on Airways Boulevard.
Justin Johnson, one of two men accused in Thornton’s slaying, was found guilty of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder and being a convicted felon in possession of a handgun Thursday, Sept. 26.
Johnson’s four-day trial, which included three days of witness testimony, came with shocking revelations about Thornton’s death. According to prosecutor Paul Hagerman and Cornelius Smith, the second shooter accused of killing Thornton, the brother of another prominent Memphis rapper, Yo Gotti, was behind the contract on Thornton’s life.
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Aarron Fleming
Aarron Fleming covers Memphis and Shelby County’s court system and is a member of The Daily Memphian’s public safety reporting team. He formerly covered education and earned his B.A. in journalism from the University of Memphis.
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Justin Johnson found guilty in Young Dolph murder
Justin Johnson has been found guilty on all counts for the murder of Memphis rapper Young Dolph in 2021.
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