DeVonte Antrel Purdue, a 23-year-old African American man from Houston, Texas, tragically lost his life on August 13, 2020. Purdue was fatally shot in the neck by Darius Handsborough, a 29-year-old man, and an unidentified accomplice, who broke into Purdue's apartment at the Circle at Point Park Apartments near Copperfield. The suspects believed Purdue had marijuana they could steal, but no evidence was found to support this claim.
The Harris County District Attorney's Office revealed that Handsborough and his accomplice went to Purdue's apartment around 8:30 p.m. that night. When Purdue opened the door, they shot him in the neck. The investigation showed that Handsborough was at the complex during the murder, supported by cell phone records and DNA evidence from Purdue's fingertips.
In October 2023, Handsborough was sentenced to 40 years in prison for the murder of Purdue. He also pleaded guilty to two armed robberies, receiving additional 40-year sentences for each case. These sentences will run concurrently, and Handsborough must serve at least half of all three sentences before being eligible for parole.
Despite Handsborough's conviction, the search for the unidentified accomplice continues. Purdue's mother, Armina Bradley, has expressed her grief and desire for justice, hoping that the remaining suspects will be apprehended. She has also revealed that a third party was involved in setting up the crime, instructing Handsborough and his accomplice to go to Purdue's apartment.
The loss of DeVonte Purdue has deeply affected his family and friends. Purdue was known for his kind and giving nature, his love for gaming, and his close relationship with his sister and her children. His mother continues to seek justice for her son, hoping to prevent other families from experiencing similar tragedies.
