In the summer of 2022, a dispute that began in the digital world tragically spilled into the streets of Ypsilanti, Michigan, claiming the life of 46-year-old Terrell Smith. A local man known for his outspoken and often comedic Facebook Live broadcasts under the moniker 'Rells Corner,' Smith was shot and killed on June 28th while streaming live from outside his home on Nash Avenue. The incident, which was witnessed by thousands online, stemmed from a heated argument Smith was having with commenters on his livestream. He was known for his 'brutally honest' commentary, and on this particular day, his loyalty to Ypsilanti was a point of contention. Words escalated, with threats allegedly being made by a commenter.
During the live broadcast, Smith acknowledged the escalating tension, stating to his viewers, 'Now y'all on Facebook, 'I'm riding around with 60 shots.'' Shortly after, a vehicle approached his residence. On the livestream, Smith was heard saying, 'OK, we've got action,' moments before a barrage of over 30 gunshots rang out. The shooting itself was not seen on camera, but the audio captured the violent end to the online dispute. First responders found Smith with multiple gunshot wounds; he was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. The video of the incident was viewed thousands of times before being removed by Facebook.
The investigation into Terrell Smith's murder led to a series of arrests in the following days and months. Authorities quickly identified and apprehended several individuals connected to the shooting. Among those arrested were Martita Bonner, 41, and Jermia Castion, 25, who were both charged with conspiracy to commit homicide/open murder. Another suspect, a 24-year-old man, was apprehended in Georgia and awaited extradition. The search continued for another man, 19-year-old Coreyon Brown, who was identified as a murder suspect and was later arrested by U.S. Marshals in November 2022.
Further investigation revealed that the suspects were all members of one family who knew Smith. In total, five individuals faced charges of conspiracy to commit homicide and open murder: 25-year-old Jermia Castion, 41-year-old Martita Bonner, 24-year-old Sharif Bonner, 18-year-old Tyree Pitts, and 26-year-old Andre Walker. During court proceedings, it was revealed that Sharif Bonner had been in the online argument with Smith. Martita Bonner and Jermia Castion both accepted plea deals for reduced charges of accessory to murder after the fact in exchange for their testimony. Martita Bonner testified that she drove one of the three cars that went to Smith's home and that her nephew, Sharif, retrieved a gun before the confrontation. The prosecution identified Sharif Bonner, Tyree Pitts, and Coreyon Brown as the shooters. In October 2022, a judge ruled there was enough evidence for Sharif Bonner and Tyree Pitts to stand trial for open murder.
