Two suspects, Justin Johnson and Cornelius Smith, charged with the murder of Memphis rapper Young Dolph had their court appearance rescheduled due to an absent witness. The hearing was originally scheduled for Friday, March 24, but the witness was on vacation, causing the hearing to be postponed until April 14.

This development in the case comes after a previous court appearance was added in error for Johnson. On March 2, Johnson was expected to appear before Judge Lee Coffee in Shelby County Circuit Court, Division 7, but the courts announced that it was a mistake and rescheduled the hearing for March 24.


The murder of the Memphis rapper took place outside of a bakery on Airways Boulevard on November 17, 2021. Young Dolph, whose real name was Adolph Thornton Jr., was fatally shot and killed in the incident.


Justin Johnson is one of the four men charged in connection with the rapper's death. The other three suspects are Jermarcus Johnson, Cornelius Smith, and Hernandez Govan.

The case has garnered widespread attention, given Young Dolph's prominence as a successful rapper and entrepreneur. Born and raised in Memphis, he had a significant impact on the city's music scene and beyond. His music was known for its gritty realism and authenticity, as he often rapped about his personal experiences and struggles.

The investigation into Young Dolph's death has been ongoing since November, and authorities have not released any further details about the case. However, the charges against the four suspects indicate that they are believed to have been involved in the shooting.

The delay in the court appearance for Johnson and Smith only adds to the intrigue surrounding the case. It remains to be seen what new details may emerge when the suspects eventually make their appearance in court. For now, the case continues to capture the attention of music fans and legal observers alike, as the investigation into the death of Young Dolph moves forward.