Condola Hicks Jr., a 20-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on September 15, 2019, in Orlando, Florida. The incident occurred near the Millenia neighborhood, where Hicks was found shot in the chest around 2 p.m. Despite being rushed to Orlando Regional Medical Center, he succumbed to his injuries. The Orange County Sheriff's Office launched an investigation into the shooting, which was initially shrouded in mystery.
As the investigation unfolded, it was revealed that
the shooting was the result of a botched robbery. Kenneth Franklin, a 19-year-old male, was arrested and charged with second-degree felony murder in connection with Hicks' death. According to the arrest warrant, Franklin and Hicks had planned to rob a man during a $120 marijuana sale. The plan went awry when Hicks drew a gun on the intended robbery victim, leading to a struggle over the weapon. During the altercation, the gun discharged, fatally wounding Hicks. The robbery victim fled the scene, leaving the gun behind.
Franklin, although not the one who pulled the trigger, was charged under Florida law, which allows for murder charges if someone dies during the commission of certain felonies. He was held at the Orange County Jail without bond and faced the possibility of life in prison if convicted. The case highlighted the dangers of illegal activities and the severe consequences that can arise from them. The tragic death of Condola Hicks Jr. serves as a somber reminder of the risks associated with criminal behavior and the far-reaching impact it can have on individuals and their communities.
