LePreston Porter Death – A 22-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the shooting death of Memphis rapper Snootie Wild, whose real name was LePreston Porter. Ivory Duke Williams was taken into custody without incident on Wednesday and charged with Porter’s murder, according to a news release from Houston authorities. The arrest brings a measure of closure to a case that has left fans, family, and the hip-hop community grieving the loss of a talented artist whose life was tragically cut short.
The incident occurred in the early hours of February 25 on Alice Street in Houston. Authorities reported that officers responded to a shooting call around 2 a.m. and found Porter in a ditch with a gunshot wound. He was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries the following day. The circumstances surrounding the shooting were both chaotic and tragic, leaving many questions in their wake.
According to investigators, a woman at the scene told police that her car had become stuck in a ditch. As several people, including Porter, attempted to help her, she claimed Porter pointed a gun at her. Fearing for her safety, she fled the scene. Moments later, she heard gunshots but was unaware that Porter had been shot. The woman later called the police, reporting that those involved in the shooting had left in a dark-colored sedan.
Surveillance footage obtained from a neighbor provided critical details about the events leading up to the shooting. The footage showed Porter’s vehicle accidentally backing into a ditch. Shortly after, a dark-colored sedan pulled up, and three individuals—two men and a woman—exited the car and began speaking with Porter. A single gunshot was heard, after which the suspects fled the scene. They briefly returned before leaving again, according to Houston Police Lt. Ronnie Willkens, who spoke at a news conference following the incident.
Authorities identified Williams as the shooter in Porter’s death. While the motive remains unclear, the arrest marks a significant step in the investigation. For Porter’s family and fans, the news brings a mix of relief and sorrow as they continue to grapple with the loss of a beloved artist.
Snootie Wild, best known for his hit song “Yayo,” which charted on the Top 30 R&B and Top 20 Billboard lists, was a rising star in the hip-hop world. At 36 years old, he left behind a legacy of music that resonated with fans across the country. Born and raised in North Memphis, Porter was deeply connected to the city’s vibrant hip-hop scene. In 2013, he signed with Yo Gotti’s CMG label, further solidifying his place in the industry.
Beyond his music, Porter was a father of five and a fiancé to Krystal Meredith, who has been vocal about her grief and the impact of his loss on their family. His death has left a void not only in the music world but also in the lives of those who knew him personally. Friends and collaborators have described him as a passionate artist with a larger-than-life personality, someone who brought energy and authenticity to everything he did.
As the legal process unfolds, the focus remains on honoring Porter’s memory and celebrating his contributions to music. His songs, particularly “Yayo,” continue to be played by fans who remember his talent and the joy his music brought to their lives. While his death is a painful reminder of the violence that too often plagues communities, his legacy as an artist and a father will endure.
The arrest of Ivory Duke Williams is a step toward justice, but for those who loved LePreston Porter, the healing process is far from over. His music, his spirit, and the memories he created will live on, ensuring that Snootie Wild’s impact is never forgotten.