Curtis Malik Stevenson, a 24-year-old male of African American ethnicity, tragically passed away on March 19, 2022, in Denton, Texas. He was born on April 2, 1997, in Lewisville, Texas, and was raised in Denton. Curtis was known to be a very special gift from God to his proud parents, Lawrence Curtis Stevenson and Carolyn Stevenson . He attended Bowman Middle School and later graduated from Denton High School.
The circumstances surrounding Curtis Malik Stevenson's death were investigated as a murder case. On March 19, 2022, Curtis was found with multiple gunshot wounds in the alcove of a parking lot behind The Zebra’s Head at 113 Fry Street in Denton. The Denton Police Department responded to the scene and conducted a thorough investigation, which included reviewing surveillance video, interviewing witnesses, and collecting evidence.
Anshawn Lamar Phiffer, a 19-year-old male, was arrested and charged with the second-degree murder of Curtis Stevenson.
Phiffer testified that he shot Stevenson because he feared for his life. The case, State of Texas v. Anshawn Lamar Phiffer, was prosecuted by Rachel Nichols and Michelle Lowery. On August 18, 2022, a Denton County jury found Anshawn Phiffer guilty of murder, and he was subsequently sentenced to 55 years in prison.
The tragic loss of Curtis Malik Stevenson has deeply affected his family, friends, and the community in Denton, Texas. His loved ones have shared fond memories and tributes in his honor, celebrating his life and the impact he had on those around him.