Marcus Franklin, better known by his stage name Polo and also referred to as "Mr GDK," was a prominent figure in the Chicago rap scene, closely associated with the Black Disciples gang. On a tragic day, May 9, 2015, Polo was fatally shot while standing on the sidewalk in the 7200 block of South Green Street. The 22-year-old was struck multiple times in the neck and chest by an unidentified assailant.
Despite intensive investigations, no charges have been filed in connection to the murder, which authorities suspect was gang-related. Polo was a member of the Dog Pound, a faction of the Black Disciples, embroiled in a fierce rivalry with various sets of the Gangster Disciples. His moniker "Mr GDK"—short for "Gangster Disciples Killer"—was a provocative term that symbolized the hostility between these groups.
Gang Dynamics
The complex landscape of gang affiliations in Chicago often leads to violent confrontations. The rivalry between the Black Disciples and Gangster Disciples has a long history and is marked by territorial disputes and retaliatory violence.
- The Black Disciples, to which Polo belonged, have numerous sets across Chicago.
- The Gangster Disciples are known for their widespread influence and are often in conflict with other gangs.
Understanding the intricate and dangerous world of these gangs provides context for the violence that claimed Polo's life, highlighting the ongoing struggle for power and respect in the streets of Chicago.