The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) identified 42-year-old inmate Santino Casio as the suspect in the May 12, 2025, stabbing of rapper Tory Lanez at the California Correctional Institution in Tehachapi, as reported by TMZ.
Casio, serving a life sentence for second-degree murder and other violent crimes, allegedly inflicted 14 stab wounds on Lanez, who is recovering in a Bakersfield hospital. The targeted assault has sparked widespread discussion about prison safety and Lanez’s ongoing legal battles.
Casio, convicted in 2004 of second-degree murder, first-degree attempted murder, and weapon use, has a decades-long record of violence. Additional sentences in 2008 (six years for inmate assault) and later (two years for weapon possession) highlight his aggressive behaviour, per the CDCR. Described as bald and heavily tattooed, Casio remains a high-risk inmate.
The man who stabbed Tory Lanez, Santino Casio, is currently serving life in prison for murder.
According to @TMZ, Lanez was allegedly attacked by Casio around 7:20 a.m. on Monday. This wasn't his first violent incident behind bars. pic.twitter.com/D4zEhseSUL
— Complex Music (@ComplexMusic) May 14, 2025Tory Lanez, legally Daystar Peterson, suffered wounds to his back, torso, head, and face in the attack, as detailed by his legal team on Instagram. Hospitalised in stable condition, Lanez is serving a 10-year sentence for shooting at Megan Thee Stallion in 2020. The incident, described as targeted, has fueled X debates about Lanez’s safety, with some users speculating on motives tied to his celebrity status, though no official motive has been confirmed.
The CDCR is investigating the assault, with no charges yet filed against Casio pending further inquiry. The attack follows Lanez’s high-profile conviction, which continues to polarise opinions on X, where supporters rally with #FreeTory hashtags while others reference his legal troubles. The Tehachapi facility, known for housing violent offenders, faces scrutiny over inmate safety.
Tory Lanez stabbed by 42-year-old convicted murderer Santino Casio who is serving life in prison. Tory is serving 10 years after he was found guilty of shooting Megan Thee Stallion in July 2020. pic.twitter.com/akRy4AEDPW
— Kollege Kidd (@KollegeKidd) May 14, 2025The stabbing underscores ongoing challenges in prison safety, particularly for high-profile inmates, and raises questions about rehabilitation and violence prevention. Lanez’s case, amplified by his music career and legal controversies, draws attention to systemic issues. The incident may influence public perception of Lanez’s incarceration and broader prison conditions in California.
