Skrilla’s Hometown Video Shoot Ends With Rapper In Handcuffs

Skrilla was taken into custody in his own Kensington neighborhood Saturday (August 16) after police interrupted a music video shoot and discovered the rapper using a gel blaster gun, a toy banned under Philadelphia’s weapons code.

Video recorded by local content creator “The Philly Captain” shows the rising rap artist filming a scene with his crew, dancing and interacting with onlookers before aiming and firing what appeared to be a toy water gun toward the crowd. Moments later, officers moved in, questioned Skrilla, then placed him in handcuffs and led him to a police cruiser.

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The toy in question was a gel blaster, a device that shoots soft water-based pellets often sold under brand names like Orbeez. Though marketed as toys, Philadelphia law classifies them as imitation firearms and prohibits their use in public spaces. Section 10-810 of the Philadelphia Code bans the sale and public display of “water pistols” and similar replicas, citing safety concerns and the potential for public confusion.

Skrilla, who rose to prominence with his viral track “Doot Doot (6 7),” which has pulled in over 60 million streams across platforms including TikTok, has long drawn inspiration from his Kensington roots. His music often reflects the challenges and realities of growing up in one of Philadelphia’s most scrutinized neighborhoods.

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The rapper recently released the deluxe edition of his album Zombie Love Kensington Paradise on February 28, featuring collaborations with Lil Baby, Rob49 and Baby Smoove. He’s currently signed to Priority Records under the leadership of Orlando Wharton, the executive known for working with Kodak Black, the late PnB Rock and A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie.

Just days before the arrest, Skrilla announced The Z Tour, a 22-date headlining run that kicks off October 1 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The tour will hit major cities across the U.S. and Canada before wrapping up with a hometown performance at The Fillmore in Philadelphia on November 30. Tickets went on sale Friday (August 15).