CEO of Disturbing Tha Peace Records and longtime manager of Atlanta hip-hop recording artist Ludacris, Chaka Zulu, will not be going to trial for shooting a man outside of his restaurant, APT 4B, in June 2022.
According to WSB-TV, Fulton County prosecutors have decided to drop a murder charge against the entrepreneur after saying that he shot and killed a 23-year-old man in self-defense. Zulu was approached in the parking lot by the shooting victim and others and after an argument ensued, he was shoved and reportedly shot the man after being attacked.
A Fulton County D.A. Fani Willis Spokesman Jeff DiSantis emailed a statement to the media outlet.
“The Atlanta Police Department made an arrest on charges determined at a standard of probable cause, which is their duty in this and all cases The District Attorney’s office investigates cases to determine what can be proven beyond a reasonable doubt at trial…Our investigation of the facts and analysis of applicable law indicates that this is an appropriate resolution of this case based on the standard of proof required. Because the defendant is now involved in a pre-indictment diversion program, we will not comment further about the matter at this time.”
At the time of the shooting, multiple sources confirmed that Zulu, his assistant, and another friend were in the parking lot of the restaurant when approached by someone who had words with Zulu. The conversation intensified and escalated as the other man reportedly kept his hand on his waistband. A young lady pushed another man away from Zulu and he allegedly grabbed the man after he was bumped by him. Then a group of three or four other men, who were standing nearby, rushed in and knocked the music executive down. A melee ensued and shots were fired.
Zulu also was reportedly shot, with the bullet hitting close to his heart.
Zulu’s attorney also released a statement regarding his client’s dismissal of charges.
“Mr. Chaka Zulu, a beloved son of Atlanta, is pleased with the outcome of the thorough investigation conducted by District Attorney Fani Willis and her team of lawyers and investigators,” the statement read. “From the beginning of this case, Mr. Zulu was committed to a fair process. He fully believes that after a thoughtful examination of all the facts and evidence related to this matter, District Attorney Willis reached an appropriate and just decision. It is not lost on Mr. Zulu that there was a loss of life under extraordinary circumstances. However, it is now time for Mr. Zulu to put this difficult process behind him, and to focus on the support and nurturing of his family. Accordingly, we respectfully request privacy at this time, and that any inquiries be directed to the office of Gabe Banks, Esq.”
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