On the evening of April 6, 2016, Mitchell Earl Weathersby, a 54-year-old man, was enjoying a game of dominoes with his brother and another friend outside in his North Gulfport, Mississippi neighborhood. The friendly gathering turned tragic when two armed men approached and demanded money. In the ensuing chaos of the robbery, shots were fired. Weathersby was fatally shot in the back, while his brother and the other man were also wounded. Despite his injuries, Weathersby managed to get into his car in what his family believes was an attempt to drive to the hospital. He didn't make it far, crashing his vehicle into a utility pole across U.S. 49. He was pronounced dead at Garden Park Hospital later that evening.
Known affectionately as 'Mitch Earl,' Weathersby was a longtime resident of Gulfport and a manager at a local Popeyes Fried Chicken. He was described by his family as a kind, compassionate, and intelligent man who was a central figure in their lives, always bringing 'love and laughter' to family gatherings. Having faced some health issues, he had moved back in with his mother to care for her. His niece recalled that he was always encouraging the younger generation to strive for their best.
The investigation into the violent encounter led Gulfport police to two suspects: J'Var Vontou Pope and Robert Emil Hart. Witnesses reported hearing the two men planning the robbery earlier in the day. Evidence presented at trial showed that Hart, who was wearing a GPS ankle monitor at the time, was near the scene of the crime. During the robbery, Hart took the money before Pope fired a 12-gauge shotgun, striking all three victims. The shotgun was later recovered at the home of Pope's grandmother.
Both Pope and Hart, who had prior felony convictions, were arrested and charged with capital murder, armed robbery, and aggravated assault. Following a five-day trial, a jury found both men guilty on all counts. Classified as habitual offenders, J'Var Vontou Pope and Robert Emil Hart were sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole, bringing a close to the legal chapter of a senseless act of violence that cost a beloved community member his life.
