In the early hours of July 13, 2023, the Lexington Police Department responded to a report of gunfire in the 900 block of Whitney Avenue. Upon their arrival at approximately 12:36 a.m., they discovered 31-year-old Stacey Marshall, a Black male, suffering from a gunshot wound. He was quickly transported to a local hospital for treatment but ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
His death was officially ruled a homicide.
Initial investigations suggested the shooting occurred on Whitney Avenue, but as detectives delved deeper into the case, they determined that the actual site of the shooting was a residence located in the 300 block of Michigan Street. This new information shifted the focus of the investigation and ultimately led to the identification of suspects.
The first arrest in connection with Marshall's death came the very next day, on July 14, 2023. Courtney Wrenn, 33, was taken into custody and charged with murder, first-degree burglary, first-degree wanton endangerment, and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon. A second suspect, 26-year-old Justin Brown, was arrested on August 23, 2023, facing charges of murder, first-degree burglary, and first-degree wanton endangerment.
During a subsequent court hearing, a Lexington police detective testified that Wrenn, along with three unidentified individuals, allegedly forced their way into the Michigan Street residence and opened fire. Surveillance footage from multiple angles captured the incident. The detective also stated that Brown was present during the incident but did not appear to be armed. Both Wrenn and Brown are being held at the Fayette County Detention Center as the investigation continues.
