On December 9, 2017, 13-year-old Marquise Martin, also known as "Bam," was tragically shot and killed in the Hornerstown section of Johnstown, Pennsylvania. Marquise was walking home from Sheetz with friends when shots were fired, and he was found dead on a porch on Oak Street. The Cambria County Coroner Jeff Lees confirmed that Marquise died from a gunshot wound to the chest. His death marked the 11th homicide in the county that year.
Marquise's mother, Lajanda Byrd, stated that her son had nothing to do with the recent violence in the city and was simply trying to get home when he was shot. Police believe that Marquise's death was in retaliation for the murder of 18-year-old Tavion Williamson, who was killed six days earlier just two blocks away. Investigators found a weapon at the scene and are working to determine if it is connected to Williamson's murder.
Despite the tragic circumstances, Marquise was remembered as a typical 13-year-old who enjoyed snacks and hanging out with friends. Chief Robert Johnson of the Johnstown Police Department mentioned that they have a suspect in mind but no one has been arrested yet. The investigation is ongoing, and police are urging the community to help keep children out of trouble and involved in positive activities.
A vigil was held for Marquise on Oak Street, and a GoFundMe page was created to help with funeral expenses. The Johnstown community continues to mourn the loss of this young boy and seeks justice for his untimely death.
