Gunfire broke out outside Pink House Dallas, an after-hours nightclub at 1311 Empire Central Drive in Dallas, Texas, early on January 1, 2026, turning festivities at the venue’s grand launch into chaos.
The event, marking the New Year’s arrival with performances and festivities extending into the dawn, drew a crowd eager to ring in 2026. Among those present was 25-year-old Zec’Qurie Cannon Grant Fields, known in the Dallas hip-hop scene as ZeeTheWizard, who had arrived to perform and contribute to the night’s energy.
Around 3:45 a.m. to 4:00 a.m., an altercation broke out in the parking lot near the intersection of Empire Central and North Stemmons Freeway (Interstate 35E). What began as a dispute quickly escalated into an exchange of gunfire, with multiple shooters reportedly involved based on the pattern of injuries. Bullets flew across the lot, striking five individuals in the midst of the dispersing crowd.
Dallas Police Department officers responded promptly to the scene at 1311 Empire Central Drive, finding several victims down with gunshot wounds. Emergency medical teams worked rapidly to assess and transport the injured to nearby hospitals. Four of the victims sustained injuries that, while serious, allowed for treatment and recovery. However, ZeeTheWizard’s wounds were the most severe—he had been shot in the head, leaving him in critical condition and initially placed on life support.
Zec’Qurie Cannon Grant Fields fought for five days in the hospital, surrounded by family and friends who held vigils and shared messages of hope. Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries on January 5, 2026, at age 25.
His passing sent shockwaves through the Dallas music community, where he was celebrated as an up-and-coming rapper recently highlighted by the Dallas Observer as one of the top artists to watch. Known for his creativity, positive outlook, and recent collaborations, including ties to prominent figures in the industry, Zee had been on the verge of broader recognition with planned releases ahead.
Tributes poured in from those closest to him, painting a picture of a young man who was far more than his artistry. His sister described him as a light who encouraged positivity and hope even in heavy times. A former teacher remembered his intelligence, respectfulness, athleticism, and genuine desire to support his family. Described broadly as bright, uplifting, loving, and full of passion, ZeeTheWizard left behind a legacy of inspiration in a career cut tragically short by the violence outside Pink House Dallas.
The investigation by Dallas Police continues, focusing on the altercation’s origins, potential motives, and identification of those responsible for the shooting. No arrests have been announced in connection with the incident that claimed Zee’s life and injured others, leaving the community to mourn while seeking answers in the aftermath of this New Year’s tragedy at 1311 Empire Central Drive.