Rapper Skrilla arrested during music video shoot in Kensington

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MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - JUNE 27: Skrilla performs onstage during day 5 at Summerfest 2025 at Henry Maier Festival Park on June 27, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by Joshua Applegate/Getty Images)

KENSINGTON - Jemille Edwards, better known as the rapper "Skrilla," was arrested on Saturday night in Kensington, according to the Philadelphia Police Department. 

What we know:

At approximately 11:05 p.m. on Aug. 16, a Philadelphia Police officer was allegedly shot with gel pellets from a toy gun by Edwards, who fired at the officer. He was struck three times in the face, neck and chest areas. The officer was not injured during the incident. 

Edwards had been filming a music video at the intersection of Kensington and Allegheny Avenues. A large crowd had gathered to film the video, and officers were present to ensure the roadway remained clear and traffic was not obstructed. 

What they're saying:

Jon McCann, known as the Philly Captain on YouTube, spoke with FOX 29's Kelly Rule about the incident. He recorded as the police arrested Edwards. 

"It wasn’t malice, he was joking around, but I guess there’s some things you can’t do," he said. "I’m really glad it didn’t go as bad as it could’ve, because he kept it calm."

McCann added that Edwards' demeanor kept everyone else calm during the incident, as well. He said Edwards even helped de-escalate the situation. 

"Definitely knew it was a toy. The kids who owned the gun were playing with it for 20 minutes before everything happened," he said. "The song seemed OK, and hopefully people listen to it when it comes out, because he might have to pay for court fees and stuff."

Edwards was reportedly taken into custody without incident, and officers recovered the toy gun, which was loaded with multiple gel pellets. 

He has been charged with assault on police and related offenses.