A local rapper and musician is currently in critical condition at a local hospital after being struck by a motorcyclist early this morning in Tempe.

Robert Evers, better known by his stage name Bob Domestic, was severely injured when an unknown motorcycle rider hit the 34-year-old performer while he was attempting to cross McClintock Drive just north of Apache Boulevard.

According to Tempe Police Department spokesperson Molly Enright, the incident took place at approximately 12:30 a.m. on Wednesday. Evers reportedly did not use the crosswalk.

Fellow hip-hop artist and friend Nick Norris says that Evers had finished his shift as a doorman at nearby bar and music venue Tempe Tavern a few minutes prior to the collision. He reportedly was unconscious but breathing following the collision and was rushed to HonorHealth Scottsdale Osborn Medical Center, where he’s currently in the hospital’s intensive care unit.

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A post to Evers’ Facebook account by a family member earlier today stated that he has underwent surgery after sustaining numerous fractures to a foot and leg, broken ribs, and bleeding in his brain.

The motorcyclist, identified as 28-year-old Valley resident Chadd Smith, was thrown from his bike after the collision and reportedly received less serious injuries. Police officials state he was under the influence of alcohol and was later arrested and booked into the Tempe jail on unspecified charges.

Evers has been an active member of the Valley’s hip-hop scene for many years. He's served multiple roles, including working as both a promoter and performer at numerous events at venues like the original Club Red and such now-defunct spots as Stray Cat Bar and Grill, Big Fish Pub, and Hidden House.

For the past few years, he’s been the main booker at Tempe Tavern and has put on its weekly Live and Learn night on Thursdays. (Evers was scheduled to open for Blackalicious rapper Gift of Gab at Last Exit Live next month.) He’s also known for posting his often-philosophical musings to his Facebook page, which are dubbed “Thought Pockets.”

There’s been a major outpouring of support for Evers from friends and fellow musicians on his Facebook page after word of the accident surfaced online.

Norris, who has been friends with Evers for five years, told New Times there are many people who are hoping and praying that he will recover.

“I am very sad, but I know Bobby is a fighter, and will pull through,” Norris says. “Bobby is a great person with a huge heart. My reaction is probably similar to many people who know him personally, and it's just an overwhelming feeling of shock and concern. He has a lot of people who love him, and everyone is just waiting for that new Thought Pocket so we know he's okay.”

New Times will have further updates on the situation as it develops.

Editor's Note: This blog has been updated since its original publication with additional information regarding Evers and the accident.

