Stevie Wonder Attends Marathon Burger Opening Before Nearby Shooting

Stevie Wonder attended the grand opening of Marathon Burger in Long Beach, California, on March 10, 2024. The celebratory atmosphere was marred by a shooting that occurred nearby shortly after the event concluded. The violence resulted in one fatality and at least two injuries, prompting an immediate response from law enforcement.

A representative for Marathon Burger confirmed that the shooting was unrelated to the restaurant’s opening. “The opening was a huge success with strong community support,” the spokesperson stated to CBS News. “There was an incident nearby, but it was not connected to the event. The opening itself proceeded safely and without issue.”

The event featured several notable guests, including Snoop Dogg and YG, amplifying the excitement in the community. In a video shared on social media, Stevie Wonder was seen ordering food and conversing with Blacc Sam, the brother of the late rapper Nipsey Hussle. Highlights from the gathering included Snoop Dogg expressing gratitude to the attendees, saying, “We thank y’all for coming out, we love y’all. L.B.C in the house tonight.”

Marathon Burger’s Instagram account acknowledged the vibrant atmosphere, asserting, “Don’t let the media fool you. It was a beautiful energy in the atmosphere today. It was so packed and powerful someone had to hate on it.” The company aimed to emphasize the overwhelmingly positive community support that marked the opening.

Investigation Underway Following Shooting

The Long Beach Police Department is actively investigating the shooting. As of now, the motive and details surrounding the incident remain unclear. “The motive, circumstances of the shooting, and suspect information remain under investigation,” stated Andrea Moran, a spokesperson for the police department, according to the Long Beach Post.

The aftermath of the shooting has sparked disappointment among those who attended the event. Eric VanDyke, a relative of Nipsey Hussle, expressed his sentiments during an interview with ABC7. He noted that the late rapper would have wanted the occasion to be peaceful. “It was disappointing because I know that Nip, Blacc Sam wanted this to be a happy occasion, so it’s unfortunate that something happened that would bring more attention to the negative elements as opposed to the positive elements,” VanDyke remarked.

This tragic incident follows the recent renaming of the intersection of Crenshaw Boulevard and Slauson Avenue to “Nipsey Hussle Square,” a tribute to the influential artist who was deeply embedded in the community.

As the investigation continues, the community remains focused on healing and honoring the spirit of togetherness that the Marathon Burger opening initially celebrated.