Phillip Michael McCrimmon Martin, aged 33, tragically lost his life on November 22, 2022, in Sanford, Florida. He was fatally shot at the Vista Haven Apartments, located west of Sanford. The incident occurred around 8:10 p.m. when residents reported hearing gunshots. Deputies arrived at the scene to find several shell casings and blood in the breezeway. Blood was also found on a locked apartment door, which they forced open to discover Martin deceased inside. It was later determined that Martin had been chased up an apartment stairwell and shot multiple times in the back by Kadeem Omar Fisher, who was 31 years old at the time of the incident.
The investigation revealed that there was an ongoing dispute between Martin and Fisher, although Martin's family was unaware of any such conflict. Fisher was arrested and charged with first-degree premeditated murder. He was held at the John E. Polk Correctional Facility without bond. In a subsequent trial, Fisher was convicted of the murder and sentenced to life in prison. The conviction and sentencing provided a sense of justice to Martin's family, though they expressed that it did not bring them true peace, as they continued to mourn the loss of their beloved son, brother, and uncle.
In addition to the criminal case, Martin's family pursued legal action against the owners and former management of the Vista Haven Apartments. They alleged that there were security issues at the complex that contributed to the circumstances leading to Martin's death. The family has been vocal about their desire to raise awareness about gun violence and to prevent other families from experiencing similar tragedies. They have participated in public events and campaigns, wearing orange to symbolize their commitment to reducing gun violence and honoring Martin's memory.
