Marquise Matthews, a 19-year-old male from Philadelphia, PA, was tragically shot execution-style on October 17, 2016, in the Kensington section of the city. Matthews was found lying on the road with a gunshot wound to the head, and despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators discovered six shell casings at the scene and reviewed surveillance footage from the area to gather more information.
The investigation revealed that Matthews was involved
in selling heroin on the 2900 block of Rosehill Street, where he was known to sell a brand called "Block Party" heroin. On the night of his death, he was with associates near the middle of the block when an individual, later identified as Chris Johnson, approached and began firing shots at them. Matthews attempted to dive out of the way but was struck in the head. Johnson fled the scene, and Matthews was later found by police officers who attempted to transport him to the hospital, but he was pronounced dead en route.
Chris Johnson was eventually arrested and charged with first-degree murder in connection with Matthews' death. During the trial, multiple witnesses, including Matthews' associates, positively identified Johnson as the shooter. The court found Johnson guilty of first-degree murder, and he was sentenced accordingly.
The case highlighted the dangerous and often violent nature of drug-related activities in the area, as well as the significant impact such crimes have on the community and the families of the victims. The conviction of Johnson brought some measure of justice for Matthews and his loved ones, but the loss of a young life remains a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by communities dealing with drug-related violence.
