Chris-Dion Lashad Russell, a 29-year-old African American male, was tragically killed on January 11, 2017, in Fort Worth, Texas. The incident occurred during a robbery at his apartment, where he was targeted by three former college football players from McMurry University in Abilene. The perpetrators, Broderick "B.J." Ross, Dontrell Dock, and a third unnamed player, went to Russell's apartment with the intent to steal marijuana.
During the robbery, Russell was shot and killed.
Broderick "B.J." Ross, a former quarterback, was sentenced to 25 years in prison for his role in the murder. He pled guilty to the charges and received a relatively lighter sentence compared to his co-defendant, Dontrell Dock, a former running back, who was convicted of felony murder and sentenced to life in prison. The third player involved in the incident was not indicted by a grand jury. The sentencing of Ross took into account nearly two dozen letters of support, highlighting his good family background and potential for redemption.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant Criminal District Attorneys Marcus Hanna and Kacey Fickes, with Tarrant County Judge Wayne Salvant presiding over the trial. Judge Salvant emphasized the seriousness of the case and the need for justice to be served. The criminal justice system worked to ensure that those responsible for the death of Chris-Dion Lashad Russell were held accountable for their actions.
