Brandon Lamar Washington, a 26-year-old African American man, was tragically killed on July 19, 2017, in Amarillo, Texas. Washington was found in the parking lot of a convenience store near the intersection of Polk Street and Amarillo Boulevard with multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to a local hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival.
The investigation into Washington's death led to the arrest of 30-year-old Matthew Dewon Wilson.
Wilson was indicted on charges of murder and was taken into custody later that day. Court documents revealed that Wilson had a prior conviction for Deadly Conduct - Discharging a Firearm from 2007. The case was prosecuted by the 47th District Attorney's Office, and Wilson faced legal proceedings for his involvement in Washington's death.
Washington's family remembered him as a caring and persistent individual who had moved to Amarillo from Florida to start anew. Despite facing challenges, he was determined to make a positive change in his life and was known for his love of sports and his ability to share interesting statistics about professional athletes. His sister, La’Quita Smith, described him as "full of life" and "the favorite uncle" to her children.
The loss of Brandon Lamar Washington deeply affected his family and friends, who continue to seek justice for his untimely death. The case remains a poignant reminder of the impact of violence on individuals and communities.
