Tragedy Strikes Behind Bars: Big U’s Son, Jabari “Baby Uiie” Henley, Shot and Killed in South L.A. 💔🕊️
Los Angeles, CA — In a devastating turn of events, Eugene “Big U” Henley, the infamous hip-hop executive and reputed leader of the Rollin 60s Crips, has just suffered an unimaginable loss. While sitting behind bars awaiting trial in a major federal RICO case, Big U received the heartbreaking news that his son, Jabari “Baby Uiie” Henley, was murdered in cold blood on the streets of South Los Angeles.
According to authorities, surveillance footage captured the shocking moment. The video reportedly shows Jabari, 27, walking toward a parked vehicle outside a smoke shop late Friday night. As he approaches the driver’s side window, multiple shots ring out. Jabari collapses instantly, struck several times before the suspect speeds away. Despite emergency responders arriving within minutes, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
A Father’s Worst Nightmare
For Big U — a man once feared and respected in equal measure across L.A.’s street landscape — the news struck harder than any sentence or indictment ever could. Known for his reputation as a power broker in both hip-hop and gang circles, Henley’s influence has long been tied to his neighborhood ties and his work with several major West Coast artists.
But behind that notoriety was also a father who, in recent years, had spoken openly about wanting to guide young men away from the same streets that raised him. Those closest to him say this loss has broken him in ways that no courtroom could.
“Big U always talked about protecting his family and changing the narrative,” said one associate familiar with the family. “He might’ve controlled the streets once, but he couldn’t protect his son from them. That’s the part that’ll haunt him forever.”
From the Studio to the Streets
Jabari “Baby Uiie” Henley had reportedly been trying to carve his own path, balancing his father’s shadow with ambitions in music and entrepreneurship. Friends describe him as charismatic, loyal, and deeply connected to his community, though still navigating the pull of South L.A.’s dangerous environment.
“He was trying to make it out,” said one longtime friend. “He had dreams — music, family, business — but out here, your past and your zip code can catch up to you no matter what.”
Local residents told reporters that violence in the area has flared in recent weeks, with several shootings believed to be connected to ongoing disputes between rival crews. Police have not yet confirmed whether Jabari’s killing was gang-related, a targeted hit, or a robbery gone wrong.
Detectives are now reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and seeking any witnesses who might have seen the gunman or the getaway vehicle.
A Legacy of Power and Controversy
Eugene “Big U” Henley is no stranger to headlines. Once regarded as one of the most influential figures in Los Angeles’ gang and music scene, he helped manage and mentor some of the West Coast’s biggest rap stars. His connections extended from community activism to entertainment deals, though controversy has always followed.
Big U has long denied being a criminal kingpin, describing himself instead as a reformed hustler turned community leader. Still, federal prosecutors allege that he remained tied to criminal activity through organized racketeering, an accusation that has left him awaiting trial under the RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations) Act — charges that could carry decades in prison.
Now, as he fights for his freedom, he must also mourn the loss of his son — a tragedy that underscores the brutal cycle of violence he once helped perpetuate and later tried to dismantle.
Community Reacts: “No One Is Untouchable”
News of Baby Uiie’s death spread quickly across South L.A., with tributes and disbelief flooding social media. Many posts reflected the painful irony that the son of one of L.A.’s most feared street figures could still fall victim to the same world his father once controlled.
“It don’t matter how much power you had, how much money you made — the streets don’t love nobody,” wrote one local artist on Instagram.
“Big U taught a lot of us the game, but even the OGs can’t stop a bullet from finding home.”
Activists in the community have used the tragedy to call for renewed efforts toward violence prevention and youth outreach, saying the cycle of retaliation and pride continues to claim lives regardless of status or family name.
The Unanswered Questions
As investigators continue piecing together what happened, the motive behind the killing remains unclear. Police have yet to announce any suspects or arrests.
Sources close to law enforcement say the attack appeared targeted, given how quickly the gunman fired and fled. But whether it was connected to Big U’s long-standing affiliations, his federal case, or unrelated street disputes remains under investigation.
For now, one fact is painfully clear: a father, known for his power and influence in Los Angeles’ most feared neighborhood, is left grieving behind bars, unable to attend his son’s funeral or comfort his family.
A Final Reflection
In a world where power and respect often come at the price of blood, the death of Jabari “Baby Uiie” Henley stands as a stark reminder of what those streets truly take.
Big U’s story — once seen as a tale of redemption and influence — now carries another chapter of loss and heartbreak. Behind the fame, the fear, and the headlines, this tragedy exposes the human cost of the cycle that so many try, but fail, to escape.
“You can build empires,” one community member said quietly. “But you can’t build walls strong enough to keep the streets out.” 💔🕊️