Marshia McGill-Bowman, a 40-year-old African American woman from Dolton, IL, tragically lost her life on August 21, 2019. She was struck by a stray bullet while driving her four children home from day care along Sibley Boulevard. Despite being hit in the head, Marshia managed to drive her children to safety more than three blocks away before succumbing to her injuries two days later at the University of Chicago Medical Center. Marshia was a dedicated mother and active member of her church, St. Paul C.M.E., where she served in various capacities, including as a choir director and missionary.
The investigation into Marshia's death revealed that she was not the intended target of the shooting. The bullet that struck her came from a nearby gun battle involving Avion Fonville, an 18-year-old African American male, who was engaged in a shootout with rival gang members. Fonville, who allegedly yelled that he was a "killer" during the gunfight, was charged with first-degree murder in connection with Marshia's death. Surveillance footage and witness testimonies indicated that Fonville fired multiple shots from his home, one of which tragically hit Marshia.
Fonville's bond hearing revealed further details about the incident. He was seen firing a brown handgun towards Sibley Boulevard, where Marshia was driving. After the shooting, Fonville was observed pacing in front of his home, still armed and boasting about his actions. The police investigation led to the execution of a search warrant at Fonville's residence, where nine shell casings were found. Fonville was subsequently arrested and denied bond.
Marshia's death had a profound impact on the Dolton community, prompting calls for increased vigilance and efforts to curb violence. Her family and friends gathered to celebrate her life and remember her as a loving mother and devoted church member. The community's response to her tragic death highlighted the ongoing struggle against gun violence in the area.
