Suspect in Slim Dunkin murder case surrenders to police

By: Crimesider Staff
Topics: Daily Blotter

An undated photo of rapper Slim Dunkin, who police said was gunned down Friday, Dec. 16, 2011, in an Atlanta music studio.

(Credit: Facebook)

(CBS/AP) ATLANTA - A man charged with killing rapper Slim Dunkin (born, Mario Hamilton) at a recording studio has turned himself into police.

ABC affiliate WSB-TV reports that Vinson Hardimon, known as rapper Young Vito, surrendered to Atlanta police Monday afternoon around 3 p.m. He was taken to the Fulton County jail on murder and gun possession charges.

Authorities say the 28-year-old fatally shot 24-year-old Hamilton, known as Slim Dunkin, on Dec. 16 at an Atlanta recording studio. Detective David Quinn is still searching for more information in the case.

"We got a call from Mr. Hardimon's attorney. They wanted to turn themselves into me personally," said Quinn.

Atlanta police had put a lookout for Hardimon and advised him to turn himself in, warning him that his life might be in danger.

The Atlanta Journal Constitution reports that according to witnesses, while shooting a video in a Memorial Drive studio, Slim Dunkin was shot in the chest during a fight that allegedly started over a piece of candy, police said.

Investigators believe Hardimon was the man who argued with Slim Dunkin, eventually pulling out a pistol and firing at the victim.

Law enforcement officials pushed several witnesses to give more information the incident in the studio, but more information is needed, even with Hardimon in custody.

"We did get some cooperation from witnesses but we're still urging the public, whoever was at 1074 Memorial Drive on Dec. 16, to give us a call," Quinn said.

Hardimon is expected in court Tuesday morning to face his murder charge.

Slim Dunkin was considered an up-and-comer in local rap star Waka Flaka Flame's Brick Squad Monopoly hip hop collective.

"There were at least 30 people in the studio at the time of the shooting," Quinn said. "They should get in touch with me. We want the facts. It's the right thing to do."

Police are asking that anyone with information in the case call Crime Stoppers Atlanta at 404-577-8477 or contact Quinn at 404-245-8039.

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by morris2196 December 29, 2011 9:36 AM EST: I welcome almost anything that reduces the incidence of the noise call rap, but I draw the line at homicide.; Reply to this comment


by oldabner December 27, 2011 7:07 PM EST: The shooter wanted that cool shirt for a game of checkers - true dat.; Reply to this comment


by guyfrompa46 December 27, 2011 3:12 PM EST: Slim Dunkin shot dead by a punk named Young Vito? HUH? I guess you can't make this Sh** up.. Over a piece of candy no less...Ah the wonderful world of talentless rappers.; Reply to this comment