The hunt for justice in the killing of beloved Philadelphia rapper LGP Qua took a significant step forward this week, as police captured the third and final suspect tied to his death. On August 7, Philly cops moved in on a house on Reach Street and found 21-year-old Amir Earley, the man investigators say has been dodging arrest since May, trying to slip out the back door. His getaway attempt didn’t get far. Within moments, he was in cuffs, bringing a tense chapter in this case closer to its end.
Earley has been wanted since May 21, when murder charges were first filed against him for his alleged role in Qua’s killing. The tragic shooting happened on May 11, in broad daylight, in Philadelphia’s Juniata Park neighborhood.
Police say around 4:45 P.M., three men approached Qua, whose real name was Qidere Johnson, and a friend near M Street and East Luzerne. What was meant to be a robbery for his chains spiraled into deadly violence when one of the suspects fired a shot into Qua’s chest. He was rushed to Temple Hospital but didn’t survive. He was just 30 years old.
Two other suspects, Joshua Thomas-Coleman and Abdul Boyd, both 19, were already behind bars facing murder charges. Earley was the last man on the run until Tuesday’s arrest. Investigators say surveillance footage and tips from the public, motivated in part by a $20,000 reward, helped piece together how the trio carried out the fatal encounter.
For many in Philly, this wasn’t just another crime statistic. LGP Qua had built a name for himself as more than just a rapper; he was a voice for change. Known for his powerful lyricism and commitment to uplifting the community, he frequently spoke about breaking the cycle of violence and inspiring the city’s youth. Fans and peers called him “The Voice of the Youth” because he lived the messages he rapped.
His death left the city in shock, even as Street corners, social media feeds, and even national hip-hop circles lit up with tributes. Meek Mill and other Philly figures honored his memory, while locals mourned the loss of a man who had been actively trying to create the kind of city where young people wouldn’t have to fear the same violence that took him.
Detectives believe the motive was rooted in greed, as a pair of chains caught the wrong eyes. It’s a chilling reminder of how quickly a symbol of success can turn into a target.
With Earley’s arrest, the legal process will now work to bring justice for Qua and his loved ones. While no courtroom outcome can get him back, the hope is that accountability will at least deliver some measure of closure to the family, friends, and fans still grappling with his loss.
LGP Qua’s legacy, though, is not gone, but music still plays in cars and headphones across the city. His words still inspire young dreamers in Philly’s neighborhoods. And his message that it’s possible to rise above the streets now carries an even greater weight.
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