Rick Ross was allegedly threatened at gunpoint and pistol-whipped earlier this month near the campus of Bethune-Cookman University, according to authorities.
William Roberts III told Daytona Beach police that a man confronted him on a sidewalk near the intersection of McLeod Avenue and Weaver Street on Oct. 11, brandishing a weapon and referencing his famous father during the assault. The suspect, identified as 20-year-old Don Roberts III, allegedly pulled up to the victim in a gray sedan while the younger Roberts was standing with a woman.
suspect arrested:
According to a police affidavit, the suspect pointed a tan handgun at the victim and issued a direct threat. “I don’t care who your daddy is, I’ll kill you right here,” the suspect allegedly said before striking William Roberts III on the right side of his head with the firearm. The victim, who is listed as a football player on the Bethune-Cookman University 2025 roster, did not report the incident until the following day.
He told investigators he delayed the report because he was “in fear” following the violent encounter. Although the suspect and victim share a last name, police confirmed the two men are not related. The suspect allegedly fled the scene in a vehicle described as either a BMW or a Kia. While William Roberts III suffered minor swelling from the strike to his head, he reportedly declined medical attention at the scene.
Investigators were able to identify the suspect through a photographic lineup, though city camera footage was unable to capture the specific moment of the assault.
Don Roberts III turned himself in to authorities on Oct. 16. He faces felony charges of aggravated assault and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. During a court appearance on Oct. 19, the defendant entered a plea of not guilty to the charges. A bond hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 21, where the defense is expected to request a $50,000 bond.
Prosecutors have reportedly signaled an agreement to the bond terms. Rick Ross, the multi-platinum artist and founder of Maybach Music Group, has not yet issued a public statement regarding the incident involving his son.
William Roberts III is the son of the rapper and Tia Kemp. The investigation remains active as local authorities continue to process evidence related to the confrontation.
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