Duane ‘Keffe D’ Davis has been found guilty of first-degree murder in connection with the 1996 killing of Tupac Shakur, Billboard reports.
- September 2, 2026
AceShowbiz - Duane ‘Keffe D’ Davis has been found guilty of first-degree murder in connection with the 1996 killing of Tupac Shakur, Billboard reports. A Las Vegas jury determined that Davis orchestrated the drive-by shooting that ultimately claimed the life of the iconic rapper.
Per Billboard, prosecutors argued that Davis arranged the attack as retaliation for a dispute involving his nephew and members of Tupac’s entourage earlier that evening. Saobserver also reported that the 63-year-old Davis is currently facing the possibility of a life sentence following the conviction. The jury’s decision marks a significant moment in a decades-old case, as Davis was the only person criminally charged in relation to the murder.
Tupac Shakur was fatally shot in a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas on September 7, 1996, and succumbed to his injuries six days later at the age of 25. Known primarily as a rapper and actor, he released the influential 1991 album "2Pacalypse Now" and appeared in films such as Bullet and Gang Related. His career earned him multiple award nominations, including several Grammy nods and MTV Video Music Award recognitions.
The family of Tupac Shakur responded to the verdict with relief and gratitude, particularly honoring Tupac’s late mother, Afeni Shakur, for her unwavering commitment to preserving his legacy. They expressed appreciation for the jurors’ careful evaluation of the evidence and acknowledged the support received from relatives, friends, fans, marshals, and advocates throughout the trial. While the conviction is a pivotal development, the family emphasized that Tupac’s story and impact extend far beyond the courtroom.
This article is based on reporting originally published by Billboard.