Wu-Tang Clan Affiliate Shyheim Arrested After Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident

Today (Jan. 9) brings more Wu-Tang Clan-affiliated press outside of Ghostface Killah's appearances on 'Couples Therapy,' but this time it's much more unfortunate. Wu-Tang associate Shyheim Franklin has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run accident.

Shyheim Franklin, also known as the Rugged Child, turned himself in on Jan. 9 after allegations of his involvement with a car crash that killed Staten Island, N.Y., resident Felipe Avila on New Year's Day. The rapper ran through a stop sign and slammed into Avila's Dodge Ram before parking his Volvo and fleeing the scene on foot.

Before he turned himself in, Franklin posted a video on YouTube asking fans to help supports his legal fees. "You know I'm in a lot of trouble right now and I need help with my legal defense so I can have a fair shot in court," he says.

Leaving the scene of a fatal accident is a Class D felony. The rhymer is facing incarceration plus he has previous run-ins with the law. He was awaiting a trial following a drug and gun bust from April 2013.

The Wu-Tang affiliate has released five solo albums and is known for his 1995 Madison Square Garden freestyle (think "Where Brooklyn at?") with the Notorious B.I.G., Big Scoob, Tupac and Big Daddy Kane. Shyheim was still a teenager at the time of the legendary cypher.