Marcqui J. Apholone, a 25-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on November 8, 2018, in Decatur, Illinois. Marcqui, also known as "Kies," was born on January 21, 1993. His untimely death was the result of a fatal shooting that occurred in the 2100 block of East Whitmer Street in Decatur. The incident took place on November 9, 2018, and left the community in shock and mourning.
The investigation into Marcqui J. Apholone's death led to the arrest of Dante L. Wade. Wade was apprehended by members of the U.S. Marshals Violent Fugitive Task Force on November 19, 2018, just ten days after the shooting. He was charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death of Marcqui J. Apholone. Wade pleaded not guilty to the charges, but a jury found him guilty of first-degree murder on August 19, 2020.
The legal proceedings culminated in Wade being sentenced to 60 years in prison on October 7, 2020. This sentence was to be followed by three years of mandatory supervised release. Wade was required to serve the entire sentence, although he was credited for the time he had already spent in custody from November 26, 2018, through October 6, 2020.
Marcqui J. Apholone's death and the subsequent legal actions highlight the severe impact of gun violence on individuals and communities. The case underscores the importance of thorough investigations and the pursuit of justice for victims and their families. The sentencing of Dante L. Wade brought some measure of closure to the tragic event, although the loss of Marcqui J. Apholone continues to be felt deeply by those who knew and loved him.
