In a shocking turn of events, Canadian rapper Tory Lanez, whose real name is Daystar Peterson, was brutally attacked in a California prison on May 12, 2025, leaving him hospitalized with severe injuries. The 32-year-old artist, currently serving a 10-year sentence for the 2020 shooting of fellow rapper Megan Thee Stallion, was reportedly stabbed 14 times by another inmate, resulting in collapsed lungs and critical condition. The incident has sparked widespread concern among fans and reignited discussions about prison safety and Lanez’s controversial legal battles.
According to a statement posted on Lanez’s official Instagram account, the attack occurred at the California Correctional Institution in Tehachapi, about 75 miles north of Los Angeles. The assailant, identified by authorities as Santino Casio, allegedly used a homemade weapon to inflict multiple wounds across Lanez’s body, including seven stabs to his back, four to his torso, two to the back of his head, and one to his face. The severity of the attack caused both of Lanez’s lungs to collapse, requiring immediate medical intervention and a breathing apparatus. Despite the harrowing ordeal, Lanez is now breathing on his own and remains in stable condition, though he continues to experience significant pain.
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation confirmed the incident, stating that prison staff responded swiftly, activating emergency protocols and transporting Lanez to a nearby hospital in Bakersfield. Authorities have launched an investigation, with the Kern County District Attorney’s Office and the prison’s Investigative Services Unit working to determine the motive behind the attack. Casio, the alleged attacker, has been placed in restricted housing pending further inquiry. While officials have not disclosed a clear reason for the assault, speculation on social media platforms like X suggests tensions within the prison may have escalated due to Lanez’s high-profile status.
Lanez’s team shared an emotional update, emphasizing his resilience and gratitude. “Despite being in pain, he is talking normally, in good spirits, and deeply thankful to God that he is pulling through,” the Instagram post read. His attorney, Jose Baez, echoed this sentiment, telling TMZ that Lanez is “upbeat” and expected to recover fully. The rapper has also expressed appreciation for the outpouring of support from fans, many of whom have taken to X with the hashtag #FreeTory to voice their concern and call for his release.
This violent incident adds another layer to Lanez’s tumultuous journey since his 2022 conviction. Found guilty of three felony charges—assault with a semi-automatic firearm, carrying a loaded, unregistered firearm, and discharging a firearm with gross negligence—Lanez was sentenced in August 2023 for shooting Megan Thee Stallion in the feet after a heated argument outside a Hollywood Hills party. The case divided the hip-hop community, raising complex issues about gender dynamics, victim credibility, and systemic bias. Megan, whose legal name is Megan Pete, has since alleged ongoing harassment from Lanez through third parties, securing a restraining order against him until 2030.
The attack has also fueled debates about the safety of high-profile inmates in correctional facilities. Lanez, known for hits like “The Lady of Namek” and his recent prison-released album Peterson, remains a polarizing figure. While some fans view him as a victim of a harsh justice system, others argue his actions against Megan Thee Stallion justify his sentence. The trending #FreeTory hashtag on X reflects the deep loyalty of his fanbase, but it also underscores the polarized sentiments surrounding his case.
As Lanez recovers, questions linger about the circumstances of the attack and its implications for his future. Will this incident prompt a reevaluation of his sentence or prison conditions? For now, the rapper’s focus remains on healing, with his team promising updates on his condition. Fans are encouraged to share their support and stay informed as this story develops.
