In the quiet neighborhood of Edgewood, Maryland, a tragedy unfolded in the driveway of a home on Majesty Lane. On the evening of December 20, 2022, 46-year-old Kisha Blackwell, a Black female, was found with gunshot wounds. Despite being rushed to a nearby trauma center, she succumbed to her injuries the following day. The incident, which began as a verbal argument, escalated into a fatal act of violence that would leave a lasting impact on her family and the community.
The investigation
into Blackwell's death quickly identified her ex-boyfriend, 43-year-old Jamar Deverick Wise of Towson, as the primary suspect. It was revealed that Blackwell had an active protective order against Wise, who had a history of domestic violence. On that fateful day, Wise confronted Blackwell at her home, and a heated argument ensued. Tragically, the altercation culminated in Wise fatally shooting Blackwell in the presence of her 15-year-old daughter, who was inside the house with two foster children. During the terrifying event, her daughter had the presence of mind to call 911, and the sound of gunshots was captured on the call. A neighbor also recorded the incident, providing crucial evidence for investigators.
Following the shooting, Wise fled the scene, prompting a multi-day manhunt. Thanks to a tip from a vigilant community member who spotted him at a gas station, authorities were able to locate and apprehend Wise in Pennsylvania two days later. At the time of his arrest, he was found to be in possession of a firearm. Wise was taken into custody and awaited extradition to Maryland to face charges for his actions.
Jamar Deverick Wise was charged with first-degree murder and other related offenses in connection with the death of Kisha Blackwell. In a significant development in the case, Wise pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in February 2024. The plea agreement outlined a potential sentence ranging from life imprisonment with all but 80 years suspended to life without the possibility of parole. Prosecutors have indicated their intent to seek the maximum sentence, underscoring the severity of the crime, which has been described as a profound instance of domestic violence. The case now awaits sentencing, which is scheduled for May 10.
