Shyheim The Rugged Child, Wu-Tang Affiliate, Arrested After Fatal Hit-And-Run

Shaolin-based rapper Shyheim Franklin's legal troubles continue, as the Wu-Tang affiliate is in custody for leaving the scene of a fatal hit-and-run accident.

The Rugged Child turned himself in to authorities yesterday (Jan. 8) as a result of allegations connecting him to an earlier car crash that killed fellow Staten Island-native, Felipe Avila. Police sources say the rapper ran through a stop sign and slammed into the victim's car, then proceeded to hit a parked Dodge Ram before getting out of his Volvo and running off.

To make matters worse, the vehicle the MC was driving was borrowed from a friend, and contains his blood throughout the interior and driver-side airbag as evidence.

The 90s lyricist is no stranger to run-ins with the law, and his most recent incident would be his second in past 12 months. Shyheim is currently pending trial for a drug and gun bust stemming from a police raid that occurred in April 2013.

Hip-hop historians remember the rapper for his collaborations with Wu-Tang members, sharing a Madison Square Garden Stage with Biggie, and his work with Tupac. Check out our feature story reminiscing on his legacy here.

Franklin is expected to face a charge of leaving the scene of a fatal accident, which is a class D felony and considering his lengthy criminal record may result in incarceration.

[via SILive]