Tyrone Thomas, known to friends and family as “Tybo,” was a 37-year-old man remembered for his strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit. A devoted laborer from District Heights, Maryland, he was the loving father of three children: Jayceon, Ari, and Maliah. His family recalled his infectious laughter and kind heart, which left a lasting mark on everyone he met.
In the early hours of Sunday, August 13, 2023, a violent encounter in Forestville, Maryland, cut his life short.
At approximately 1:35 a.m., officers from the Prince George's County Police Department responded to reports of a shooting in the 3700 block of Donnell Drive. They found Tyrone Thomas, a Black male, outside with gunshot wounds. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced deceased a short time later. Two other adult men were also discovered at the scene with gunshot wounds; they were transported to a hospital for treatment of injuries that were not considered life-threatening.
The Prince George's County Police Department's Homicide Unit launched an investigation into the triple shooting. Investigators determined that the person responsible was known to the victims, though a specific motive remained under investigation. Weeks later, in late September 2023, police announced an arrest in the case. Devonte Taylor, a 34-year-old man also from District Heights, was taken into custody.
Taylor was charged with first and second-degree murder, attempted murder, and other related charges in connection with the fatal shooting of Tyrone Thomas. However, when the case went to trial, a jury acquitted Devonte Taylor of common law murder, attempted murder, and firearm charges.
Following the acquittal, the homicide of Tyrone Thomas remains unsolved. As of July 2026, the investigation is ongoing. A reward of up to $25,000 is being offered for information that leads to an arrest and indictment in the case. Anyone with information is asked to call the Homicide Unit at 301-516-2512. To remain anonymous, individuals can contact Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477).
