Nipsey Hussle Death: Eric Holder Guilty Of First-Degree Murder

In the fatal shooting of rapper Nipsey Hussle, Eric Holder was convicted of first-degree murder Wednesday.

The Los Angeles County jury found the 32-year-old guilty of first-degree murder, possession of a firearm and two counts of attempted voluntary manslaughter, reported ABC News. But he was found not guilty of attempted murder against two men who were injured in the shooting attack that happened in 2019.

Holder, who pleaded not guilty, faces up to life in prison. Wearing a blue suit and face mask, Holder stood up in the courtroom next to his attorney as the verdict was read out. He did not have any visible reaction in the court.

Following the verdict, Aaron Jansen, Holder's attorney, said in a statement to Rolling Stone that he and Holder will file an appeal to the judgement. Jansen said that he was "deeply (disappointed) in the First Degree Murder verdict." The lawyer noted that it was always going to be tough given the "high profile nature of this case," but he feels grateful that the jury agreed with "us, in part, that the case was overcharged and acquitted Mr. Holder, Jr. of the two first degree attempted murder charges."

He shared that they will move on to sentencing set for Sept. 15, where they will present "substantial evidence relating to Mr. Holder, Jr’s. mental health and file a Notice of Appeal.”

The Hollywood Reporter reported that the verdict brings an end to a legal battle that lasted more than three years. The trial was often delayed because of the coronavirus pandemic.

In March 2019, Hussle, a Grammy-winning rapper, was gunned down outside of his clothing store in South Los Angeles. Hussle, whose real name was Ermias Asghedom, was standing in a parking lot at the time. Then Holder allegedly approached and shot him multiple times, said police.

The rapper was taken to a hospital where he was declared dead, and later the coroner determined that he died from gunshot wounds to the head and torso. Hussle was a widely loved figure in Los Angeles, especially in the South Los Angeles area. He grew up there and remained there after gaining fame. He bought property and opened businesses in the area.