Latricia Ezell, a 52-year-old woman from Allentown, PA, tragically lost her life on October 28, 2018. She was killed by her son, Zakiiy Carson, who also shot and killed his sister, Ashley Campfield, 29, in the parking lot of their apartment building. Carson called 911 shortly after the incident and confessed to the killings. He was arrested at the scene and later arraigned on charges of murder.
Carson's defense claimed he was suffering from mental health issues and had stopped taking his
medication prior to the incident. During the trial, it was revealed that Carson had been arguing with his mother and sister before the shootings. He allegedly shot his mother in the head and his sister in the back as they came outside to check on him. Carson eventually entered a plea of guilty but mentally ill, and was sentenced to 25 to 50 years in prison.
The case drew significant attention from the local community and media, with neighbors expressing shock and disbelief over the sudden and violent nature of the crime. Carson's erratic behavior in the months leading up to the incident, including claims that the FBI was after him, raised concerns among those who knew him. Despite the tragic circumstances, Carson's 3-year-old nephew, who was inside the apartment during the shootings, was unharmed and placed in the care of family members.
The Ezell and Campfield families have since been left to grapple with the aftermath of the double murder, seeking closure and justice for their loved ones. The case remains a somber reminder of the devastating impact of mental illness and domestic violence.
