Robert Scott, a 34-year-old male, was tragically shot and killed on February 2, 2015, in his apartment on Queen Street, Wilmington, NC. The incident occurred during an attempted robbery when Tyler Greenfield and Cashaun Harvin entered Scott's apartment under the pretense of purchasing marijuana. An argument ensued, leading to a gunfire exchange. Scott was struck by three of the twelve shots fired by the men, resulting in his death.
Greenfield was also shot in the stomach during the altercation, and Azariah Brewer, who interrupted the robbery, was hit in the elbow and below the ear.
Tyler Greenfield, who was 19 years old at the time of the incident, was convicted of first-degree murder, assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious injury, and other charges. He was sentenced to life in prison without parole in February 2017. However, in 2020, the North Carolina Supreme Court granted Greenfield a retrial, citing improper standards given to the jury during deliberations. The retrial was postponed multiple times due to COVID-19, and Greenfield's new trial was set to begin in February 2022.
Cashaun Harvin, who was 21 years old at the time of his trial, represented himself after firing five court-appointed attorneys. He was found guilty of first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon, and other charges. Harvin was sentenced to life in prison, with eligibility for parole in 25 years due to his age at the time of the murder. The jury's verdict was seen as a just outcome, providing some measure of closure for Scott's family after enduring two lengthy murder trials.
The tragic death of Robert Scott highlights the dangers associated with drug-related activities and the devastating impact of gun violence. The legal proceedings surrounding his murder have been complex and prolonged, with multiple trials and appeals. Despite the challenges, the convictions of Greenfield and Harvin serve as a reminder of the importance of justice and accountability in the face of such senseless violence.
