Silver Fox Twin Roy Salutes Justice for Tupac: 30 Years Later, a Guilty Verdict

Justice for Tupac 30 years Later: On August 31, a jury found a man guilty of the 1996 murder of one of hip-hop's most influential artists.

By Silver Fox Twin Roy Williams

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Nearly 30 years after the death of one of hip-hop's most influential artists, a Las Vegas jury has finally delivered a verdict in the murder of Tupac Shakur.

On Monday, August 31, 2026, a Clark County jury found Duane “Keffe D” Davis guilty of first-degree murder with a deadly weapon in connection with Tupac's 1996 killing.

The jury reached its verdict in less than three hours after an 11-day trial that brought one of the most enduring mysteries in music history into a courtroom.

For me, this isn't just another headline. I was a young adult in the early 1990s when Tupac became one of my favorite rappers. His music was part of the soundtrack of my young-adult years. Now, nearly three decades later, I'm watching a jury finally hold someone accountable for his death.

Silver Fox Roy Wants to Know

So now that the verdict has been delivered, I want to know: What's your favorite Tupac song?

Mine are these 4 in order:  

1  “Dear Mama” – His slow ballad tribute to his mother. Listen here: https://youtu.be/Mb1ZvUDvLDY?si=BqnzpasGDdGcmY9l

2 “California Love” – the feisty beat, collaboration with Dr. Dre and others, plus the “California knows how to party” line  remains fresh in my mind) Link here to the video: https://youtu.be/omfz62qu_Bc?si=n_a0D-0heoa7HT-R

3 -“Keep Ya Head Up” – Another hit showing the softer side of Tupac -Video link here: https://youtu.be/SHVzWMFMH6Y?si=f-ZvIsmgAqus4v50

4 - “How Do U Want It” – Another Tupac jam that got you onto the dance floor - Video link here https://dai.ly/x8plsfm

So what’s your favorite Tupac song?

Tupac Was More Than a Rapper to Me

Tupac was more than a rapper. His music told stories about life in Black America—struggle, poverty, relationships, street life, anger, ambition and the search for a better way.

Yes, some of his lyrics were vulgar and controversial. But Tupac also had a remarkable ability to connect with people.

He could make you think.

He could make you dance.

And he could make you feel.

One of my favorite Tupac songs remains “Dear Mama.”

That song showed another side of the artist: the son expressing love, appreciation and respect for his mother.

Then Tupac could turn around and give us songs like “How Do U Want It” and other hits that filled dance floors and radio stations.

That versatility was part of his appeal.

Nearly 30 Years of Questions

Tupac was only 25 years old when he was shot in Las Vegas on September 7, 1996. He died six days later. For nearly three decades, questions surrounding his killing became part of hip-hop folklore.

There were theories and rumors that went into overdrive, especially after East Coast rapper rival Notorious BIG was fatally shot.

There were documentaries, books, interviews and countless conversations among fans trying to figure out what really happened that night.

But there had never been a conviction.

Until now.

Prosecutors argued that Davis helped orchestrate the shooting as retaliation after a fight earlier that night involving his nephew, Orlando “Baby Lane” Anderson. Prosecutors said Davis did not pull the trigger but helped organize the attack.

Much of the prosecution's case centered on Davis' own words—including statements he made during interviews and accounts contained in his memoir.

The defense argued that Davis had exaggerated or fabricated stories about his involvement.

Ultimately, the jury heard the evidence and made its decision.

Guilty.

Justice Doesn't Bring Tupac Back

For hip-hop fans who have followed this case for years, it represents the end of one chapter in a story that seemed like it might never have an ending.

Davis has said he plans to appeal the conviction, and sentencing is scheduled for October 13. So, while the verdict provides a measure of closure, the legal process isn't necessarily finished.

Nearly 30 years after Tupac's voice was silenced, we're still talking about him.

We're still listening to his music.

And now, after all these years, a jury has spoken.

Justice for Tupac.

Rest in peace, Tupac Shakur.

— Silver Fox Twin Roy