Charlotte, August 11, 2025
News Summary
Memphis comedian Mario ‘Grove Hero’ Bradley was shot in the spine during a comedy tour stop in Charlotte. Following the shooting, he vowed to continue performing despite his injuries. Local community members expressed disbelief at the attack on someone known for his charitable work. The incident occurred near a Boost Mobile store, and details on any arrests have not been released. Bradley’s resilience has garnered significant support from fans, with his ‘For My People Tour’ set to continue.
Charlotte witnessed a tragic incident on Saturday night when Memphis comedian Mario “Grove Hero” Bradley was shot in the spine during a stop on his comedy tour. The shooting took place around 9 p.m. on the 3300 block of Freedom Drive, sending shockwaves through the local community. According to Medic, the comedian was transported to a hospital in Charlotte with life-threatening injuries. The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear, and local authorities have not released any details about possible arrests.
In a remarkable show of resilience, Bradley took to social media to inform his followers about his injury. He confirmed that he was shot in the spine and expressed that he would be unable to walk as a result. Despite this setback, he announced his intention to continue his tour the very next day at the exact location where the incident occurred. He emphasized his determination to perform, stating that although he would be in a wheelchair, the tour must go on.
The comedian’s ongoing “For My People Tour” started in Charlotte from August 7 to 9, and he is scheduled to make another stop in Gaffney, South Carolina, on August 10. This dedication to his craft, even following such a traumatic event, has garnered support from fans and the comedy community alike. Observers remarked on his strong will to entertain despite the serious circumstances he faces.
The shooting occurred near a Boost Mobile store, situated just off Interstate 85 and at the intersection of Freedom Drive and Tuckaseegee Road. Local residents are incredulous about the attack, emphasizing Bradleyโs positive influence within their community. The comedian is known for his charitable work, which includes purchasing and renovating properties in Frayser, creating rent-free housing for individuals facing hardships.
This community-minded approach has not gone unnoticed, as earlier this year, a street in Memphis was named in his honor for his contributions. The impact Bradley has had on the lives of many has led Frayser residents to express disbelief that someone would wish to harm him.
Bradley is a member of Paper Route Empire, a music collective established by the late rapper Young Dolph. The incident involving Bradley is not the first violent occurrence linked to Paper Route Empire in Charlotte; in 2017, Young Dolphโs armored SUV was targeted while he was inside.
In terms of future commitments, Bradley has expressed plans to return to Memphis at the end of the month to continue his tour, showcasing his resolve to overcome the challenges he now faces.
FAQ
Who is Grove Hero?
Mario “Grove Hero” Bradley is a comedian from Memphis known for his community contributions and entertaining performances.
Where and when was he shot?
Bradley was shot in Charlotte on the 3300 block of Freedom Drive on Saturday night around 9 p.m.
What injury did he sustain?
He suffered a gunshot wound to the spine, which has resulted in him being unable to walk.
Will he continue his tour?
Yes, despite his injury, Bradley announced plans to perform the next day at the same location where he was shot.
What community work has he done?
Bradley has worked on purchasing and restoring properties in Frayser and has provided rent-free housing for those in need. A street was named after him in March for his contributions.
What is the “For My People Tour”?
The “For My People Tour” is Grove Heroโs ongoing comedy tour, which recently included shows in Charlotte and is set to continue in Gaffney, South Carolina.
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Additional Resources
- Action News 5
- Wikipedia: Memphis
- Fox 13 Memphis
- Google Search: Mario Grove Hero
- QC News
- Google Scholar: Grove Hero
- WCNC
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Comedy
- Prime Timer
- Google News: Mario Grove Hero
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
