Chicago Rapper Bloodhound Q50 Addresses Shooting Speculation with Bold Social Media Posts
Chicago’s emerging drill music scene has been abuzz with unconfirmed reports of a shooting involving rapper Bloodhound Q50, whose real name is Mikquale Cooper. Amidst swirling online speculation about his condition and the alleged incident, the young artist has taken to social media with a series of defiant posts, seemingly dismissing the rumors and taunting those who wish him ill.
Unconfirmed Reports Surface from St. Louis
Details surrounding the alleged shooting began to spread rapidly across social media platforms around August 17-18, 2025. Reports suggested that Bloodhound Q50 and three other individuals were injured in St. Louis, with some accounts claiming his vehicle was targeted by multiple gunshots, possibly after being lured to a fake show. Some unverified posts even suggested that he and the others were in critical condition. However, crucial to these reports is the striking lack of official confirmation from law enforcement agencies in St. Louis or from Q50’s official team. News outlets have struggled to independently verify the claims, leaving the exact circumstances and Q50’s actual condition shrouded in ambiguity.
Q50’s Defiant Online Persona
In the wake of the spreading rumors, Bloodhound Q50 himself has become the primary source of information, albeit through a highly combative and defiant online persona. Rather than issue a formal statement, the rapper took to Instagram and Instagram Live to address the speculation. He posted images and videos portraying himself as unharmed and in good spirits, often accompanied by provocative captions and lyrics. One notable Instagram post featured him smiling inside a Rolls-Royce, quoting lyrics that suggest a sense of invincibility and defiance: “Notorious like Big Poppa but I ain’t goin like Chris Wallace. Da world know who the goblins they beggin fa me to stop it. Da reason they don’t ride wit toddlers no sympathy dump on mamas. U either in or u out it and don’t even question me bout it”.
Adding to the spectacle, Q50 shared videos on his Instagram Story that appeared to show him snorting a white substance while issuing taunts directed at his alleged attackers. These posts, while fueling further online debate and concern, cemented his image as an artist unafraid of controversy and unwilling to back down from perceived enemies. His response has been described by some as a direct taunt to his “opps” and “haters”.
A Comeback Track Amidst Controversy
Further solidifying his defiant stance, Bloodhound Q50 released a diss track titled “60k” shortly after the shooting rumors gained traction. The song functions more as a comeback single, directly referencing the incident and positioning himself as someone who continues to overcome adversity. He raps about feeling “immortal” due to repeatedly “escaping death”. This musical output serves as another facet of his response, turning the alleged attack into fuel for his artistry and a testament to his resilience in the face of danger and online negativity.
Background in Chicago’s Drill Music Scene
Bloodhound Q50, identified as a rising voice in Chicago’s competitive drill music landscape, began his career in 2023. His music, characterized by gritty delivery and street-focused lyrics, quickly gained attention. Early tracks like “Big 3” and “Coffin” set the stage for his subsequent success. A pivotal moment in his career came in July 2024 with the release of his single “Splash Bros.,” following the tragic death of his close friend and collaborator, Bloodhound Lil Jeff. His music often carries the emotional weight of these losses, incorporating posthumous verses from Lil Jeff on some tracks.
By the end of 2024, Q50 signed with Signal Records, a division of Columbia Records, and released his debut album, “Long Live My Barbuda, He Prolly Kilt Yo Barbuda,” in April 2025. He is also notably associated with the “Bloodhounds” gang in Chicago, a connection highlighted in various discussions about the drill scene.
Unanswered Questions and Cultural Commentary
The situation surrounding Bloodhound Q50 highlights the complex intersection of music, street culture, and social media. The unconfirmed nature of the shooting, coupled with the rapper’s flamboyant and defiant response, has ignited widespread discussion. Speculation has also arisen about potential motives, including unconfirmed claims that Q50 owed $60,000 to an individual in St. Louis, which might have precipitated the alleged attack. Furthermore, a video circulating online appeared to show an alleged gunman bragging about the incident, a phenomenon often referred to as “self-snitching” in the context of drill culture.
Regardless of the verified facts, the narrative surrounding Bloodhound Q50’s reported shooting and his subsequent taunts has amplified his presence in the hip hop world. His ability to generate conversation, even amidst unconfirmed and chaotic events, underscores his growing influence and the unpredictable nature of modern music stardom. The rapper’s journey from rising artist to a central figure in online drama continues to be a top story for fans and observers of the hip hop and music industry.