Snoop Dogg seeks dismissal of wrongful death lawsuit filed by Drakeo the Ruler’s brother over backstage stabbing, citing no role in festival operations.
- May 23, 2026
AceShowbiz - Snoop Dogg is requesting a judge to dismiss the wrongful death lawsuit involving the tragic stabbing of rapper Drakeo The Ruler.
The legal action was initiated by Drakeo The Ruler's brother in 2022 following the fatal incident backstage at the "Once Upon a Time in L.A." festival. Drakeo The Ruler, born Darrell Caldwell, was stabbed during a violent altercation on December 18, 2021, and succumbed to his injuries the following day.
In the recent court filing, Snoop Dogg's LLC argues for a summary judgment to be granted, stating their company had no role in organizing or managing the event. The motion emphasizes that the company did not operate the festival, hire security personnel, plan the event, or control the venue where the stabbing happened. Specifically, it states that the LLC had "no involvement in the 2021 Once Upon a Time in L.A. festival operations" and did not possess any ownership or leasehold interest in Exposition Park, the event location.
According to the declaration, Snoop Dogg was present solely as a performing artist, and his participation was limited to that role. This challenges claims that tie him or his company to the event’s security or management responsibilities.
The lawsuit accuses the festival organizers and associated parties of providing insufficient security measures, describing the precautions as "woefully inadequate." Defendants in the case include Live Nation, USC, Los Angeles FC, Bobby Dee Presents, and other entities. However, earlier this year, USC, Los Angeles FC, and Bobby Dee Presents were dismissed from the lawsuit.
Despite the high-profile nature of the case, no arrests have been made in connection with Drakeo The Ruler's death. Law enforcement has not publicly identified any suspects, and witness cooperation has reportedly been minimal. Bystander footage captured during the chaotic backstage scene has been referenced but has not led to breakthroughs.
Drakeo The Ruler was 28 years old at the time of his death, and the legal proceedings surrounding the case continue as Snoop Dogg seeks to remove his company from liability in this tragic incident.
