Earl Hatton, also known by his stage name Earl Swavey, was a 26-year-old rapper from Los Angeles, California. He tragically lost his life on January 9, 2022, after being shot near 3130 S. Hill St. in Historic South-Central Los Angeles. According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner's records, Hatton died from a gunshot wound to his back, with the bullet lodging in his heart.
Additionally, blunt head trauma from a subsequent vehicle collision was listed as a contributing factor in his death.
On the night of the incident, Hatton was driving a car with multiple passengers when he was shot by someone outside a party. The shooting caused him to lose control of the vehicle, which then crashed into a parked motorhome. Witnesses reported that at least one passenger inside Hatton's vehicle discharged a firearm before individuals at the party returned fire. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) believes the shooting was gang-related, although specific details about the gang affiliations or motives were not elaborated upon.
Following Hatton's death, the investigation into the incident revealed that the shooting was part of a broader pattern of violence affecting the local community. Despite the LAPD's efforts, no arrests have been made in connection with Hatton's murder. The case remains open, with authorities continuing to seek information from the public to identify the suspects involved.
Hatton's death was part of a series of violent incidents involving prominent figures in the Los Angeles rap scene. His passing came shortly after the murders of fellow rappers Darrell "Drakeo The Ruler" Caldwell and Vincent "Slim 400" Cohran in December 2021. These incidents have highlighted the ongoing issue of violence within the community and the challenges faced by law enforcement in addressing gang-related crimes.
In the wake of Hatton's death, tributes poured in from fans and fellow artists, including acclaimed rapper Vince Staples, who expressed his condolences on social media. Hatton's legacy as a talented artist and his connections with influential figures like A$AP Yams have left a lasting impact on the music industry and his community. Despite the tragic circumstances of his death, Hatton's contributions to the rap scene continue to be remembered and celebrated by those who knew him and appreciated his work.
