In the early morning hours of February 15, 2021, a tragedy unfolded in the quiet city of Marshalltown, Iowa, forever altering the lives of many. Michael Ray West, a 48-year-old Black / African American male, was diligently working his shift at the Casey's convenience store located at 111 N. Third Avenue. A resident of Marshalltown for several years, he was known for his strong work ethic, holding a full-time position at JBS Swift Meat Company in addition to his part-time role at Casey's.
Originally from Kansas City, Missouri, West was a father to eight children and was remembered for his dedication to his family and his active involvement in his church.
The normalcy of his shift was shattered when a violent encounter resulted in him suffering a fatal gunshot wound. Police officers responded to a call about the shooting at approximately 3:07 a.m. and discovered West, who had died from his injuries. The senseless act of violence sent shockwaves through the Marshalltown community.
The investigation into West's death, led by the Marshalltown Police Department with assistance from the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, moved swiftly. On the same day as the incident, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a residence in the 700 block of Bromley Street. This led to the identification and arrest of a suspect, 20-year-old Rocky Dean Trujillo of Marshalltown. Trujillo was taken into custody and faced a litany of charges, including first-degree murder, two counts of first-degree robbery, going armed with intent, assault with intent to inflict serious injury, and trafficking in stolen weapons.
The legal process culminated on April 8, 2023, when a jury found Rocky Trujillo guilty on five charges, including the first-degree murder of Michael Ray West and two counts of first-degree robbery. The conviction brought a measure of legal closure to a case that had deeply affected the community and, most profoundly, the family and friends of a man who was simply at his place of work.
