Canadian rapper and singer Tory Lanez is reportedly in stable condition following a harrowing stabbing attack inside California Correctional Institution, Tehachapi, where he is serving a 10-year prison sentence. The incident, which unfolded on the morning of Monday, May 12, 2025, left the 32-year-old artist with multiple stab wounds and collapsed lungs, sparking renewed concerns over prison safety and inmate protection.
Vicious Assault Shocks Fans and Prison Authorities
According to sources close to the situation, Lanez—real name Daystar Peterson—was ambushed by another inmate during a heated altercation in the prison yard. The attack was sudden and violent, resulting in at least 14 stab wounds, including deep punctures to his back, face, torso, and scalp.
Initial reports from prison officials indicated that correctional officers were quick to respond. Medical personnel stabilized the rapper at the prison clinic before he was rushed by ambulance to a hospital in Bakersfield, roughly 90 miles away.
Collapsed Lungs and Intensive Care
A verified statement shared via Lanez’s official Instagram page revealed just how severe the injuries were:
“Tory was stabbed 14 times, including seven wounds to his back, four to his chest, two to the back of his head, and one across his cheek. Both lungs collapsed due to the trauma. He was placed on assisted breathing initially but is now breathing on his own. Despite the pain, he remains in good spirits and is grateful for the outpouring of support.”
The post went on to thank the emergency response team for acting quickly, and reassured fans that Lanez is expected to make a full recovery.
Attack Under Investigation
Officials from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) have confirmed that the matter is under active investigation. The prison’s internal security team, alongside the Kern County District Attorney’s Office, is reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses.
As of press time, the identity of the attacker has not been publicly released. The motive for the stabbing remains unclear, though it is being treated as a targeted assault.
One CDCR representative, who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the incident, stated:
“It was an isolated attack. We’re taking this very seriously and have increased monitoring within the unit where it occurred. All inmates involved will be fully investigated.”
Legal Troubles Cast a Long Shadow
Lanez has been incarcerated since August 2023, when he was sentenced to a decade behind bars for the high-profile 2020 shooting of rapper Megan Thee Stallion. During the trial, Megan testified that Lanez told her to “dance” before shooting at her feet following a disagreement after a Hollywood party.
He was found guilty on all three charges, including assault with a semi-automatic firearm and carrying a loaded, unregistered weapon in a vehicle.
Despite maintaining his innocence and launching an appeal effort, Lanez has remained behind bars while the legal process unfolds.
Support and Speculation Flood Social Media
The news of the stabbing sent shockwaves across social media, with fans, fellow artists, and critics reacting to the incident. While many expressed concern for Lanez’s wellbeing, others reignited debates around his conviction and the broader prison system.
Popular entertainment blogger DJ Akademiks posted:
“Prayers up for Tory Lanez. Regardless of how you feel about him, no one deserves this level of violence behind bars.”
Meanwhile, some users criticized the correctional facility for failing to prevent such a brutal attack on a high-profile inmate, suggesting that the rapper should have been placed under protective custody.
Family and Legal Team Speak Out
Lanez’s legal team, including attorney Crystal Morgan, confirmed his hospitalization and stated that they are closely monitoring his medical treatment. She declined to speculate on the motive but emphasized that her client is cooperating with authorities.
His family has also reportedly been notified and is expected to release a statement once his condition further stabilizes.
A History of Conflict and Controversy
This latest incident adds to a growing list of controversies surrounding Lanez since his rise to fame. From high-profile feuds to courtroom drama, the Toronto-born artist has been no stranger to headlines. His legal troubles have divided the music community, with some still supporting his artistry while others have distanced themselves.
It’s unclear whether this stabbing will impact Lanez’s parole eligibility or trigger a transfer to a different facility. Legal experts suggest that high-profile inmates who suffer such attacks are often moved to more secure locations.
Outlook and Future
For now, Lanez’s focus will be on recovery and avoiding complications from his injuries. With both lungs previously collapsed and multiple stab wounds requiring stitches and observation, his medical team is proceeding cautiously.
Sources close to the rapper insist he is “mentally strong and physically determined” to recover and continue his appeal process.
Whether this incident leads to changes in how high-risk or celebrity inmates are handled remains to be seen, but it has certainly renewed calls for reform in how prison safety is administered.
