On the evening of February 25, 2019, Kordedris KD Overton, a 26-year-old Black male, was tragically killed in Memphis, Tennessee. The incident unfolded after Overton and a friend provided a ride to an acquaintance named Dontavius Whitfield. Upon reaching the 4300 block of Graceland in Whitehaven, what seemed to be a simple act of kindness turned into a fatal robbery.
As they came to a stop, Whitfield exited the vehicle, produced a firearm, and demanded their possessions. While Overton's friend complied by handing over a cell phone, Overton attempted to drive away from the dangerous situation. It was at this moment that a second individual, Courdarrius Perkins, who had coordinated the robbery with Whitfield, approached the car and opened fire. Overton was struck multiple times in the head, shoulders, and leg. He was urgently transported to a nearby hospital but ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
The investigation that followed led to the identification and arrest of both suspects. Courdarrius Perkins was charged in connection with the deadly shooting. In April 2022, a jury found the 22-year-old Perkins guilty of murder in the perpetration of a felony and aggravated robbery. For the murder conviction, he received a life sentence in prison. His sentencing for the aggravated robbery charge was scheduled for a later date.
The other suspect, 24-year-old Dontavius Whitfield, was also taken into custody and faced charges for his role in the robbery and murder of Kordedris Overton. Following Perkins's conviction, Whitfield was scheduled to stand trial for his involvement in the crime that led to the untimely death of a young man who was simply trying to help an acquaintance.
