On June 3, 2023, at approximately 12:50 a.m., 26-year-old Quran Wesley Sims was fatally shot in his first-floor apartment located in the 2900 block of French Street in Erie, Pennsylvania. Responding officers discovered Sims with multiple gunshot wounds; he was pronounced dead at the scene. Erie County Coroner Lyell Cook later confirmed that Sims died from multiple gunshot wounds, ruling the death a homicide.
The investigation led to the arrest of 24-year-old Erie resident Robert A. Esquilin-Ortiz. Authorities charged him with criminal homicide, aggravated assault, and multiple felony counts related to discharging a firearm into an occupied structure. Evidence indicated that Esquilin-Ortiz fired 11 shots through Sims' open bedroom window, with ballistic tests matching shell casings found at the scene to a 9mm handgun owned by Esquilin-Ortiz.
A potential motive emerged during the investigation, suggesting a possible relationship between Sims and Esquilin-Ortiz's wife. Reports indicated that Sims and Esquilin-Ortiz's wife had been communicating, which may have led to tensions between the two men. Additionally, prior incidents of animosity were noted, including Esquilin-Ortiz refusing Sims a ride while working as an Uber driver and other confrontations involving hostile gestures and language.
During a preliminary hearing on August 10, 2023, Erie 5th Ward District Judge Paul Bizzarro held Esquilin-Ortiz for court on all charges. The case proceeded through the legal system, with Esquilin-Ortiz facing serious charges related to the fatal shooting of Sims.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, family, friends, and community members gathered to honor Sims' memory. A "Take Back the Site" vigil was held at the location of his death, organized by the Benedictine Sisters, Sisters of St. Joseph, and Sisters of Mercy. These vigils aim to reclaim areas where violence has occurred, promoting peace and nonviolence within the community.
Sims was remembered as a family-centered individual who graduated from Strong Vincent High School in 2015, where he participated in basketball and football. He attended Edinboro University and was employed as staff support at Perseus House at the time of his passing. His obituary highlighted his love for travel, family, and sports, noting his support for Ohio State football, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the Miami Heat.
