In the late autumn of 2015, a life was tragically cut short in Columbus, Georgia. Marcus M. Bowden, a 30-year-old man, was fatally shot on Tuesday, November 24, 2015, at his residence on Cusseta Road. This act of violence marked the end of a young life and the beginning of a long road to justice.
The investigation into Bowden's death led authorities to Demartre Trevon Harris. Harris, who was allegedly associated with the Bloods street gang, was identified as the perpetrator.
His violent spree was not limited to the murder of Bowden. The day prior to the fatal shooting, Harris was also responsible for the wounding of Laundon Alexander and Patrick Boyd.
Ultimately, justice was served in a Columbus, Georgia courtroom. On Thursday, August 9, 2019, Demartre Trevon Harris was sentenced for his crimes. He received a sentence of life in prison with an additional 15 years for the fatal shooting of Marcus Bowden and the injuries inflicted on the other two victims. During the sentencing, the judge acknowledged the severity of Harris's 'terrible acts' and the profound loss they caused. While the sentence imposed a significant punishment, the judge also spoke of the possibility of parole after a substantial amount of time served, should Harris demonstrate genuine rehabilitation.