A member of rapper Nicki Minaj’s crew, De’Von Pickett, aka “Day Day,” died and another person was critically injured early Wednesday during a stabbing in Philadelphia.
“Two members of my team were stabbed last night in Philly. One was killed,” Minaj tweeted. “They had only been there for two days rehearsing for the tour.”
According to Philadelphia police, Pickett, 29, and Eric Parker, 27, went to a bar with friends late Tuesday in Philadelphia’s East Mount Airy neighborhood. “They got into some type of verbal altercation with several other males, which quickly escalated into a physical confrontation,” Capt. James Clark told CNN affiliate WPVI. “One of those males pulled out a knife and stabbed both of them multiple times.”
Both Pickett and Parker were taken to a local hospital, where Pickett was pronounced dead. Parker remains in critical condition. Not long before his death, Pickett posted a series of positive messages via Twitter saying “Be Great,” “Namaste” and “LIFE #GODISTHEGREATEST.”
Praying for the families of E and Day Day. These 2 were a joy to be around. Sending strength and love to @nickiminaj pic.twitter.com/Tna0617D3r
— Candace Wakefield (@SuPaStAr_C) February 19, 2015
“Praying for the families of E and Day Day,” tweeted singer and songwriter Candace Wakefield. “These 2 were a joy to be around. Sending strength and love to @nickiminaj.”
“These guys flew into Philly for my tour rehearsals 2 days ago and were both stabbed last night. #RIPDAYDAY,” Minaj posted on Instagram. “Condolences to your family. Unbelievable. … Another senseless act of violence that took the life of a great guy. So sad.”
Unfortunately, authorities don’t appear to have many leads and are checking surveillance video in the area, as it is believed that the perpetrator fled the scene in a car.
Police are offering a $20,000 reward for the capture and conviction of the assailant, according to WPVI.
