In the fall of 2020, the life of a 25-year-old African American woman, Naima A. Ishmail, was tragically cut short in Chester, Pennsylvania. A receptionist known for her friendly and compassionate personality, Ishmail's body was discovered on the morning of October 7, 2020, on a walking trail near the waterfront at Front and Norris streets. An autopsy later confirmed that she had died from a gunshot wound to the head, and her death was ruled a homicide.
The investigation into her death
revealed that Ishmail had been in a relationship with a 25-year-old man from Brookhaven named Champion Hough. On the evening of October 6, 2020, what seemed to be an ordinary meeting between the two took a dark turn. Ishmail had driven her 2006 gold Chrysler 300 to Hough's residence to pick him up. From there, they proceeded to the riverfront, the location where her life would ultimately be taken in what prosecutors described as a 'premeditated, heinous act of violence.'
In the days following the discovery of Ishmail's body, her car was found in another part of Chester. Forensic analysis of the vehicle uncovered crucial evidence, including gunshot residue on the steering wheel and gearshift. Investigators also found DNA evidence inside the car. Surveillance footage from near Hough's home captured Ishmail picking him up on the night of the murder. A witness who knew of their relationship positively identified Hough from the footage. Further examination of Ishmail's phone records revealed multiple messages exchanged between her and Hough shortly before her death.
The case progressed significantly when, in November 2021, a DNA sample was obtained from Hough, who was incarcerated on a parole violation at SCI Phoenix. The analysis confirmed that his DNA matched the evidence found in Ishmail's vehicle. In January 2022, Champion Hough was charged with criminal homicide, murder of the first, second, and third degree, as well as theft and firearms-related offenses in connection with the death of Naima Ishmail. He was denied bail and awaited transport to Delaware County for arraignment. The arrest brought a measure of progress for a community deeply affected by the violent loss of a beloved young woman.
