On August 18, 2020, 20-year-old Marquaveon Dewayne Purdiman, an African American male, was fatally shot in Marion, Illinois. The incident occurred on Cherry Street, where another individual, DeAndre Edwards, also sustained gunshot wounds but survived.
Following the shooting, two men from Carbondale, Illinois—Jamonte Allison Jr. and James Moore—were arrested and charged in connection with the crime.
Both individuals faced two counts of first-degree murder and one count of aggravated battery. They were scheduled to appear in court on Friday, August 21, 2020.
Marquaveon, affectionately known as "Quae," was born on December 30, 1999, in Carbondale, Illinois, to parents Stacy Purdiman and Andre Crittendon Sr. He spent his early years in Cairo, Illinois, attending Cairo Public Schools before relocating to Marion. Known for his humor and protective nature, Marquaveon was cherished by family and friends. He had a special bond with his grandmother, Ruth Purdiman, and was in a loving relationship with Sha'Kayla Cornelius. He enjoyed working on music and was preparing to launch a T-shirt line.
The community mourned the loss of Marquaveon, with many expressing their condolences and sharing memories of his vibrant personality. The legal proceedings against Allison and Moore were closely followed, reflecting the community's desire for justice in the wake of this tragic event.
