Wannabe rapper charged in Long Island acid attack

Lyrics from suspect's song led to his arrest in 2021 assault on college student

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Terrell Campbell, a 29-year-old aspiring rapper known as 'Yung Based Prince,' has been charged in connection with the 2021 acid attack on Nafiah Ikram, a Hofstra University pre-med student, in Elmont, New York. Investigators found disturbing parallels between the lyrics in Campbell's song 'Obsidian' and details of the brutal assault, which left Ikram with severe burns and permanent eye damage.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing role of digital evidence, including social media posts and artistic expression, in criminal investigations. It raises questions about the extent to which individuals can be held accountable for content they create, even if it's intended as fiction or artistic expression.

The details

On March 19, 2021, Nafiah Ikram, then 21 years old, was attacked while returning home from work. A masked assailant threw a cup of 70% sulfuric acid in her face, causing second- and third-degree burns to her face, arms, and chest. The attack left Ikram blind in one eye and facing a lifetime of physical and emotional scars. For years, the case remained unsolved until investigators discovered Campbell's YouTube video for 'Obsidian,' posted two years after the attack. The song includes lyrics that describe an acid attack, and a Google account linked to Campbell revealed searches for 'sulfuric acid remover' shortly after the incident.

  • On March 19, 2021, Nafiah Ikram was attacked.
  • Two years after the attack, in 2023, Campbell posted the song 'Obsidian' on YouTube.

The players

Terrell Campbell

A 29-year-old aspiring rapper known as 'Yung Based Prince' who has been charged in connection with the 2021 acid attack on Nafiah Ikram.

Nafiah Ikram

A 21-year-old Hofstra University pre-med student who was the victim of the 2021 acid attack, leaving her with severe burns and permanent eye damage.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“On the street in the night like a hitman assassin, try to run up, have your face burning in acid.”

— Terrell Campbell, Rapper (YouTube)

What’s next

Campbell appeared in Nassau County Court on Tuesday, pleading not guilty to charges of assault, criminal possession of a weapon, and unlawful possession of noxious material. The judge will decide on bail for Campbell in the coming days.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing importance of digital evidence, including social media posts and artistic expression, in criminal investigations. It raises complex questions about the intersection of law and digital media, and the extent to which individuals can be held accountable for the content they create.