Darryl Baum, also known by his street name “Hommo,” was a notorious figure who walked a fine line between fame and infamy. Best known for being a close friend and bodyguard to boxing legend Mike Tyson, Darryl Baum is also widely recognized in connection to the shooting of rapper 50 Cent. His life, though short-lived, remains a compelling story of loyalty, crime, violence, and tragedy—intertwined with some of the biggest names in the worlds of sports and hip-hop.
Early Life and Background
Darryl Baum was born on August 20, 1965, in Brooklyn, New York. Growing up in the crime-ridden neighborhoods of Brooklyn, Baum was no stranger to violence, gangs, and the street lifestyle that often accompanied it. While not much is known about his early education or upbringing, it is widely reported that Baum became involved in criminal activity at a young age, which would set the tone for much of his life.
Despite his dangerous lifestyle, Baum forged a close friendship with fellow Brooklyn native Mike Tyson. This friendship would later become a pivotal part of Baum’s identity and would keep him in close proximity to fame and media attention.
Darryl Baum and Mike Tyson
Mike Tyson and Darryl Baum shared a deep bond rooted in their shared upbringing and experiences. After serving time in prison, Tyson brought Baum on board as his personal bodyguard, providing him with both financial support and a sense of purpose. Tyson’s trust in Baum was evident, and he often spoke about their friendship publicly.
In fact, Tyson dedicated one of his most memorable victories—his 38-second knockout of Lou Savarese in 2000—to Baum, who had recently been killed. Tyson shouted out Baum’s name emotionally in the post-fight interview, saying, “I did this for Darryl Baum!”
The Alleged Shooting of 50 Cent
One of the most infamous chapters in Darryl Baum’s life is his alleged involvement in the attempted murder of Curtis Jackson, better known as 50 Cent. On May 24, 2000, 50 Cent was shot nine times outside his grandmother’s house in Queens. He survived the attack, which later became a foundational part of his rise to fame and the persona he crafted in his music.
According to several reports, Darryl Baum was the triggerman in the shooting. He allegedly acted on orders from Kenneth “Supreme” McGriff, a notorious drug lord with connections to the hip-hop industry and a personal vendetta against 50 Cent. 50 Cent had reportedly mentioned Supreme in one of his early songs, which didn’t sit well with the criminal underworld.
Baum’s involvement in the shooting was never proven in court, and he was never formally charged with the crime. However, the streets and industry insiders believed he was responsible. It was a move that may have ultimately sealed his fate.
Darryl Baum and Supreme McGriff
The connection between Darryl Baum and Supreme McGriff adds another layer to the intrigue. Supreme, a former kingpin of the Queens-based Supreme Team gang, was known for his ruthlessness and influence in both the streets and the music business. Baum was allegedly one of Supreme’s associates, which would explain why he might have carried out the hit on 50 Cent.
This connection also brings into question the extent of Baum’s role in organized crime and gang activities. While he was close to Tyson and operated as a bodyguard, Baum reportedly had deep ties to street organizations and was involved in multiple violent incidents before his death.
What Happened to Darryl Baum?
Just three weeks after the shooting of 50 Cent, Darryl Baum met a violent end himself. On June 10, 2000, Baum was gunned down in a targeted shooting in Brooklyn. Details surrounding his death remain murky, but many believe it was a retaliatory killing connected to his alleged role in the 50 Cent shooting.
His death sparked further violence in Brooklyn, particularly involving his brother Tyrone “T-Rock” Baum, who was also murdered in what many believe was a continuation of the street wars Baum’s actions had inflamed.
Is Darryl Baum Still Alive?
No, Darryl Baum is not alive. He died at the age of 34. His death, much like his life, was shrouded in controversy, violence, and speculation. Baum was buried at Rosedale and Rosehill Cemetery in Linden, New Jersey, where he rests today.
Darryl Baum’s Legacy
The legacy of Darryl Baum is one of contradictions. To some, he was a loyal friend who stood by Mike Tyson through thick and thin. To others, he was a dangerous criminal who contributed to the cycle of violence that plagued New York in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
His involvement with major figures like Tyson, Supreme McGriff, and 50 Cent immortalized him in urban legend. Despite his criminal associations, Baum continues to be a subject of interest in pop culture and street lore. Documentaries, blog posts, and YouTube videos continue to explore his life, especially his alleged role in the attempted murder of 50 Cent.
Darryl Baum in Popular Culture
The shooting of 50 Cent has been referenced multiple times in the rapper’s lyrics and interviews. While 50 Cent has never named Baum directly, those familiar with the case draw clear lines between the incident and Baum’s subsequent murder. It serves as a grim reminder of how street politics and entertainment often intertwine with deadly consequences.
Mike Tyson has also kept Baum’s memory alive through interviews and public appearances. His emotional tribute following the Savarese fight is still one of the most talked-about moments in boxing history.
Darryl Baum Wikipedia Status
As of now, Darryl Baum does not have an official Wikipedia page. However, his story is scattered across numerous articles, biographies, crime reports, and pop culture analyses. Much of what is known about him comes from secondary sources, interviews, and urban storytelling platforms.
Final Thoughts on Darryl Baum
Darryl Baum lived a life that was as complex as it was controversial. From his close relationship with Mike Tyson to his alleged role in one of hip-hop’s most infamous shootings, Baum remains a subject of fascination. His story serves as a cautionary tale about loyalty, the lure of the streets, and the thin line between fame and infamy.
Though he has been gone for over two decades, the impact of his actions continues to echo in boxing rings and recording studios alike. Whether remembered as a loyal friend, a dangerous criminal, or a figure caught between both worlds, Darryl Baum’s legacy is undeniably powerful.
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