Notti Osama's Death: Details & Aftermath - RIP Notti

Jacklyn Hegmann 21 May 2025

Could the tragic death of a young artist be a reflection of the escalating violence within the New York drill scene? The untimely demise of Ethan Reyes, known to the world as Notti Osama, a 14-year-old aspiring rapper, has cast a long shadow over the city's music community, raising uncomfortable questions about the genre's impact and the lives of its young participants.

The incident, which occurred on July 9, 2022, at a New York City subway station, sent shockwaves through the city, particularly in the close-knit community of young drill artists. The victim, Ethan Reyes, was a promising talent, quickly gaining recognition under the moniker Notti Osama. His music, characterized by raw lyrics and a direct address of rivals, placed him squarely within the world of drill, a subgenre of hip-hop that has become a potent force in the city's youth culture.

The details surrounding Notti Osamas death remain a source of speculation and grief. Reports indicate that a dispute, likely stemming from the ongoing feuds that are a hallmark of the drill scene, escalated into a physical confrontation. The young rapper was reportedly stabbed in the abdomen and succumbed to his injuries. A 15-year-old was apprehended and accused of the murder, highlighting the youthfulness of those involved and the tragic consequences that can arise from the cycle of violence.

Category	Details
Full Name	Ethan Reyes
Stage Name	Notti Osama
Date of Birth	January 17, 2008
Place of Birth	Harlem, New York
Date of Death	July 9, 2022
Age at Death	14
Cause of Death	Stab Wound
Height	5 feet 7 inches (170 cm)
Weight	55 kg (121 lbs)
Siblings	DD Osama, Jstar Balla, Jay Klickin, Melz Reyes
First Track	Wit Me (2018)
Known For	Drill Rapper
Associated Acts	DD Osama, Ddot
Set Affiliation	SugarHill/OY
Reference	XXL Magazine

The environment in which Notti Osama came of age was fraught with challenges. Born in Harlem, New York, and later residing in Yonkers, he was the youngest of six children. His father was largely absent, and he was raised primarily by his mother. Reyes, like many of his peers, turned to music as a means of self-expression and a way to navigate the complex social landscape that surrounded him. Drill music provided a platform for him to voice his experiences, frustrations, and aspirations.

His journey in the music industry started with the release of his first track, "Wit Me," at the age of 10. Later, he released "Aftermath" alongside his brother DD Osama and rapper Blockwork, which further solidified his position in the local music scene. By June 2022, Notti Osama was starting to gain widespread recognition, showing potential for a successful career. This increasing visibility was tragically cut short by his untimely death.

The context of Notti Osama's death is important. The incident is deeply rooted in the culture of drill music, which often glorifies violence and rivalry. The lyrics frequently contain threats, insults, and boasts of past actions against their enemies. In essence, drill music is a reflection of the real-life rivalries, where violence and conflict become almost unavoidable. As Notti began his music career, he incorporated these common themes. In doing so, he made himself a target, and the dangers that came along with it.

The tragedy has sparked a wave of commentary within and beyond the drill community. Some argue that the genre itself normalizes violence and fuels the feuds that often lead to real-world consequences. Others maintain that drill music is simply a reflection of the harsh realities faced by young people in impoverished communities and that the focus should be on addressing the underlying issues that contribute to violence. The genre often finds itself in the public eye because of its provocative subject matter, but there is evidence to suggest that drill music is not the root cause of the violence, but rather a reflection of it.

One of the key elements in the narrative is the role of social media. The dissemination of information, both accurate and inaccurate, has contributed to the speed at which the tragedy has been observed. Footage of the incident is not available to the public. However, the aftermath of the event, including tributes and expressions of grief, has spread virally across social media platforms, exposing the vulnerabilities and the emotional impact of violence on these young lives. The constant exposure to online content, some of which may glorify violence, can further desensitize young people to the consequences of their actions and intensify the cycle of conflict.

The New York Police Department's decision not to release the video of the incident has left the public with limited information about the circumstances surrounding Notti's death. Details about the interaction, the actions of those involved, and the motivations behind them remain uncertain. The ambiguity has left room for speculation and rumors, further complicating the already sensitive situation. This lack of transparency also makes it difficult to hold those involved accountable and to enact measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.

The exploitation of the New York drill scene is another troubling aspect. Some media outlets have been criticized for sensationalizing the violence and focusing on the negative aspects of drill music. There is a risk that these stories could sensationalize the issue and could contribute to a culture of fear and mistrust. The incident involving Notti Osama and the ensuing controversy has led to reflection on the responsibility of media outlets and their role in shaping public perceptions about the drill scene.

The event sparked discussions on self-defense and the use of force. Some sources have stated that the 15-year-old who was charged with the murder was acting in self-defense, while others say that the circumstances were more complex. In situations like these, the details of the incident are critical in determining the legal outcomes and the degree of responsibility. It underscores the significance of clear legal guidelines and the need for thorough investigations to ensure justice is served.

The loss of Notti Osama is a harsh reminder of the vulnerability of young people in high-risk environments. The tragedy shows how easy it can be for conflicts to spiral out of control, often with devastating results. The constant exposure to violence and the glorification of these themes within the music and online culture can create a dangerous cycle. The community must take collective responsibility and address the factors that contribute to the violence, including poverty, lack of opportunity, and the impact of social media.

The incident, which occurred on July 9, 2022, has had a lasting impact. It has made parents, educators, and community leaders think about the role that music, culture, and social media play in the lives of the youth. The discussion also focused on the need for support systems and opportunities for young people to express themselves in healthy ways. Providing access to education, job training, and mental health resources can help young people have better options and help them steer clear of risky situations.

The memory of Notti Osama is a call for change. It is important to honor the young lives lost and to work together to create a society where young people can live without fear of violence. This requires a comprehensive approach, involving everyone, from law enforcement and educators to community organizers, parents, and the young people themselves. The path forward requires a commitment to understanding the complex problems that contribute to youth violence, to making the necessary steps to create a safer, more supportive environment for all.

Notti Osama Spotify

The Death of Notti Osama An Unraveling Tale 25Magazine

What happened to Notti Osama? 14 year old rapper fatally stabbed after

ViralMoments

Notti Osama's Death: Details & Aftermath - RIP Notti

Detail Author:

Socials

linkedin:

twitter: