Shandler Beaubien, known by his stage name Wavy Navy Pooh, was tragically killed on January 14, 2022, in Miami, Florida. The 28-year-old rapper was ambushed while driving near Zoo Miami. He was stopped at a traffic light when a car pulled up alongside his vehicle, and an unidentified shooter opened fire. Beaubien was accompanied by a woman and two young children, ages 1 and 5, who fortunately were not harmed in the attack.
The assailant fired multiple rounds, with more than 80 shell casings found at the scene, indicating the severity of the assault.
The investigation into Beaubien's death revealed that the shooter was driving a gray four-door Lexus, which fled the scene immediately after the attack. Despite the extensive efforts of law enforcement, no arrests have been made, and the identity of the shooter remains unknown. The motive behind the ambush is still unclear, with authorities considering various possibilities, including a targeted attack or a case of road rage.
Beaubien was a rising star in the Miami rap scene, known for his song "M.I.A.M.I. (Murder is a Major Issue)," which depicted the harsh realities of life in some of Miami's most dangerous neighborhoods. His music often reflected his personal experiences and the violence he witnessed growing up. Prior to his death, Beaubien had survived a previous shooting in May 2020, where he was wounded in the leg while driving. He had claimed self-defense in that incident, further highlighting the dangers he faced in his everyday life.
The community and Beaubien's family have been deeply affected by his untimely death. His record label, Quality Control, and various social media outlets associated with the rapper have expressed their condolences and shared memories of his contributions to music and his philanthropic efforts. Despite the ongoing investigation, the lack of arrests and clear leads has left many questions unanswered, and the case remains open as authorities continue to seek justice for Shandler Beaubien.