Atlanta police have identified a 28-year-old local rapper by the name of Vinson Hardimon, aka Young Vito, as a suspect in the murder of Brick Squad rapper Slim Dunkin.

Authorities have signed a warrant for Young Vito’s arrest and are now looking to take him into custody for questioning.

Slim Dunkin (real name Mario Hamilton) was killed Dec. 16 after being gunned down at a southeast Atlanta recording studio. He was allegedly killed after an argument over candy turned physical.

[READ: Witnesses Say Atlanta Rapper Slim Dunkin Murdered Over Candy… VIDEO]

Det. David Quinn urged Hardimon to turn himself in for his own safety, to avoid any opportunity for retaliatory violence.

We want to reach out to Young Vito, Vinson Hardimon, to come holla at us.

I want the family of Mr. Vinson Hardimon to give us a call, let us know. We are fearful for his safety, because we don?t want anything to happen to him.

Slim Dunkin?s funeral will be held this morning (December 23, 2011) at 11 am at Berean Christian Church in Stone Mountain. Burial will follow at Hillandale Memorial Gardens in Lithonia.

Waka Flocka Flame and Gucci Mane have reportedly committed to paying the bulk of Slim Dunkin’s funeral expenses.

Authorities are asking the public to assist in locating Young Vito. Calls can be made to Atlanta Crimestoppers at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or contact the Atlanta Police Department?s homicide unit at 404-546-4235.

More photos of Young Vito below…

(source 1 and 2)