On a Wednesday afternoon in Memphis, Tennessee, the life of 24-year-old Ralph Fitzgerald Martin Jr. was cut short in a violent encounter. On September 2, 2015, Martin was fatally shot in what investigators described as a drug deal that escalated into a robbery. The incident, which also left a companion of Martin's wounded, unfolded in the 2400 block of Chelsea Avenue.
According to reports, two men had arranged to purchase pills from Martin and his companions.
However, the transaction took a deadly turn when the supposed buyers produced firearms and attempted to rob the victims. In the ensuing chaos, Martin was shot and collapsed at the scene. Another man who fled was also shot and wounded nearby. A third individual present was shot at but managed to escape unharmed.
The investigation into the homicide led authorities to identify two suspects: Courtney Crutcher, 21, and Joseph King, 28. A month after the shooting, U.S. Marshals apprehended Crutcher in Chattanooga. Shortly thereafter, King was arrested in Memphis. Both men were subsequently indicted by a grand jury on charges of first-degree murder in connection with the death of Ralph Martin Jr. They also faced additional felony charges, including attempted especially aggravated robbery, attempted aggravated robbery, reckless endangerment, and employment of a firearm during a dangerous felony. Following their indictment, both Crutcher and King were held in the Shelby County Jail.
