Darryl Baum, a figure recognized by many as Mike Tyson’s trusted friend and bodyguard, lived a life marked by enigma and sorrow. Born on August 20, 1965, in the lively borough of Brooklyn, New York, Darryl’s personal narrative remains veiled in mystery.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
| Full name | Darryl Baum |
| Other names | Hommo |
| Date of birth | August 20, 1965 |
| Birth sign | Leo |
| Place of birth | Brooklyn, New York City, United States |
| Date of death | June 10, 2000 |
| Place of death | Brooklyn, New York City, United States |
| Age at death | 34 years |
| Cause of death | Gunshot wounds |
| Gender | Male |
| Siblings | Tyrone T’Rock Baum (brother), Zakia Baum (sister) |
| Profession | Bodyguard |
| Known for | The 2000 shooting of rapper 50 Cent |
Early Life of Darryl Baum
Darryl, born on August 20, 1965, in Brooklyn, New York, was an American with a mixed African-American ethnicity. As a Leo, his zodiac sign hinted at a daring personality from a young age. His childhood dreams revolved around becoming a successful entrepreneur, although details about his education remain undisclosed.
His journey into business ventures took a dark turn as he became entangled in the drug trade, leading to conflicts with rival gang members. In the 1990s, legal troubles caught up with him, resulting in a prison sentence. It was during this challenging time that he crossed paths with Mike Tyson, the legendary boxer known as ‘Iron.’
This chance encounter transformed Darryl’s life, as Tyson, true to his word, offered him a secure position in his security team. Unfortunately, Darryl’s involvement in illegal activities led to his untimely death at a relatively young age.
Zakia Baum, Darryl Baum’s sister, became a target of violence.
Damion Hardy targeted Zakia Baum, the sister of Tyrone and Darryl, due to her family connection with rival gang member Ivory Davis. This vendetta stemmed from Ivory’s involvement in the murder of Damion’s brother, Myron Hardy. During Damion’s 2015 sentencing, Zakia and her niece, Epiphany Baum (Tyrone’s daughter), were present and delivered victim impact statements.
In her statement, Zakia accused Hardy of being motivated by a thirst for power, stating, “The only person you care about was your alter ego, ‘World’.” Damion Hardy was ultimately found guilty of orchestrating six murders and received a life sentence in prison. The emotional impact of these events highlighted the devastating consequences of gang-related conflicts on the lives of those connected to the perpetrators and victims alike.
What Was the Connection Between Darryl Baum and Mike Tyson?
The origin of the friendship between Darryl Baum and Mike Tyson is a fascinating tale that has intrigued many. Surprisingly, they shared the same neighborhood and had been inseparable friends since childhood, navigating life’s challenges together.
Their connection deepened when both found themselves in prison around the 1990s. As cellmates, they confided in each other, fostering a bond that would last a lifetime. Following their release, Mike Tyson fulfilled his promise by offering Darryl a significant role as his confidant and bodyguard, a testament to the trust between them.
Tragically, Darryl’s life was cut short due to the consequences of his rivalry. Despite this, Mike Tyson continued to demonstrate unwavering dedication and love for his friend. He dedicated a 30-second knockout against Lou Savarese to Darryl’s memory and even offered a reward for information leading to the suspect of Baum’s murder.
Mike’s enduring connection with Darryl’s sister, Zakia, showcases the depth of their friendship. In a world where such unconditional bonds are rare, the story of Mike Tyson and Darryl Baum’s friendship stands out as a testament to enduring loyalty and camaraderie.
The Shooting of 50 Cent
On May 20, 2000, Darryl Baum allegedly shot rapper 50 Cent (Curtis James Jackson) nine times outside his grandmother’s house in Queens, using a 9mm pistol. The rapper sustained injuries to his hands, face, hips, arms, and chest, and spent 13 days in the hospital. Fortunately, he recovered after five months of treatment.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, but there are several theories. One theory suggests that 50 Cent had a conflict with certain gang members, leading to an attempt on his life. Another theory proposes that 50 Cent recorded an unreleased song exposing the activities of a drug lord and leader, Kenneth ‘Supreme’ McGriff, and Baum allegedly received orders from McGriff to assassinate 50 Cent. A third theory suggests that 50 Cent made derogatory remarks about Ja Rule, a star on the Murder Inc. label, provoking members of the label.
The shooting of Darryl Baum didn’t affect the relationship between 50 Cent and Mike Tyson.
50 Cent and Iron Mike Tyson have maintained a positive relationship despite the 2000 near-fatal shooting involving the boxer’s bodyguard. The two have been seen together on several occasions. In 2003, the rapper purchased Mike Tyson’s sprawling 51,657-square-foot mansion in Connecticut for $4.1 million. He undertook various renovations before listing it in 2007 for $18.7 million. Ultimately, the property sold in 2019, albeit at a reduced price of $2.9 million, marking an 84% decrease from the initial listing.
Darryl Baum died three weeks after the 50 Cent shooting
Darryl met a tragic end in Brooklyn on June 10, 2000, falling victim to a shooting related to the drug war, merely three weeks after his alleged attempt on rapper 50 Cent’s life. The incident was reportedly linked to his supposed association with rival gang member Ivory Davis. Damion ‘World’ Hardy, the ex-boyfriend of rapper Lil Kim, was arrested alongside Eric Moore and Zareh Sarkissan in connection to the shooting. Moore was identified as the trigger-puller, while Sarkissian served as the getaway driver. Notably, Kenneth McGriff, the individual who allegedly hired Darryl to target 50 Cent, is currently serving a life sentence. On February 9, 2007, McGriff was convicted of various crimes, including murder-for-hire, reflecting his involvement with New York gangs from 1981 to 2006.
The Cause of Darryl Homo Baum’s Death
Darryl “Homo” Baum’s life was abruptly ended by a gunshot wound to the back of his head during a violent clash with a rival gang. Unfortunately, the severity of his injuries, coupled with a lack of immediate medical attention, resulted in a tragic loss of life. The individuals responsible for this reprehensible act have been apprehended and are currently in police custody.
Delving into the intricacies of Darryl “Homo” Baum’s life and demise, we encounter a narrative marked by themes of friendship, betrayal, and the harsh realities of street life. His story stands as a poignant reminder of the formidable challenges many individuals encounter in the pursuit of their dreams, illustrating the profound impact that loyalty and vengeance can wield in shaping destinies.
FAQS
Q. What led to Darryl Baum’s involvement in the shooting of 50 Cent?
The motive behind the shooting remains shrouded in mystery, with speculations ranging from conflicts with rival gangs to a song that allegedly exposed a drug lord’s activities.
Q. How did Darryl Baum’s friendship with Mike Tyson begin?
Baum and Tyson shared a childhood friendship, growing up in the same neighborhood. Their bond strengthened during a challenging period when both were incarcerated in the 1990s.
Q. What impact did Darryl Baum’s death have on Mike Tyson?
Even after Baum’s tragic death, Mike Tyson continued to exhibit unwavering dedication and love. Tyson dedicated a boxing match to his fallen friend and offered a reward for information leading to the apprehension of the suspect.
Q. What happened to the individuals involved in Darryl Baum’s death?
Damion Hardy, associated with the shooting, faced the consequences with a life sentence for orchestrating multiple murders. Kenneth McGriff, who was purportedly involved in hiring Baum, received a life sentence for his involvement in various criminal activities.
Conclusion:
In wrapping up, the life of Darryl “Homo” Baum weaves a intricate tale of friendship, betrayal, and the harsh truths of street existence. Whether it’s his purported role in the shooting of rapper 50 Cent or his deep connection with Mike Tyson, Baum’s narrative mirrors the struggles individuals endure while chasing their aspirations. His premature passing stands as a powerful reminder of how loyalty and vendettas can profoundly shape destinies in the unforgiving streets.
