On July 9, 2024, at approximately 11:38 p.m., Mesquite police responded to a shooting at a Shell gas station in the 3400 block of North Town East Boulevard. Upon arrival, officers found 18-year-old Kavontae Slate with a gunshot wound to the chest. Despite immediate medical attention, Slate was transported to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.
Investigations revealed that Slate and his older brother had arranged to meet individuals at the gas station for a drug deal.
Surveillance footage showed a white Dodge Journey arriving at the scene, driven by a female with multiple passengers. After a brief interaction, 20-year-old Omarey Marshall, seated in the backseat, fired an "AR-style" rifle at Slate. The vehicle then fled east on Interstate 30, as captured by city traffic cameras.
Cell phone records indicated prior communication between Slate and Marshall, aiding investigators in identifying the suspect. On July 10, the Mesquite Police Department's Tactical Team executed a search warrant at Marshall's residence in Rowlett, Texas, leading to his arrest on charges of capital murder. His bond was set at $5 million.
Further investigation led to the arrest of a second suspect. On July 16, 22-year-old Christion James of Rowlett was apprehended and charged with murder in connection with Slate's death. The case remains under active investigation by the Mesquite Police Department.
