Berry claimed that he fired at the rapper in self-defense.

Eric Gordon The man who shot and killed Roderick Anthony Burton II also known as Dolla at the Beverly Center in Los Angeles has been acquitted of murder on a self-defense plea, according to The Los Angeles Times.

The 24 year old defendant was hugged by his attorney after the last of the not guilty verdicts was read. Friends and family of Burton wailed and sobbed in the audience.

Berry testified that Burton threatened to kill him near the valet desk of the parking garage of the Beverly Center. Burton then allegedly reached toward his back as if going for a gun. Berry then opened fire shooting Burton in the left bicep once and three times in the back. Police found no weapon on Burton.

Dolla’s violent rap lyrics and supposed gang affiliation are justification for Berry fearing for his life when encountered. Berry was also found not guilty of assault charges claiming he had shot at two men with Burton at the time of his death. Jurors deliberated for less than two days before rejecting murder and manslaughter charges.