On an April evening in 2022, the life of 23-year-old Rayna Garrett, a Black female from Muskegon, Michigan, was tragically cut short. On April 24, outside a residence on Riordan Street in Muskegon Heights, a single shot from a rifle ended her life. Rayna, a mother of two daughters, was found shot inside a vehicle and was transported to a local hospital where she ultimately succumbed to her injuries.
Remembered as a wonderful mom and a loving person who was full of life, she enjoyed music and dancing and was known for her straightforward nature.
The investigation into her death led authorities to Joseph Plummer, a 51-year-old resident of Muskegon Heights. Evidence presented during the legal proceedings indicated that Plummer fired the fatal shot. In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, Plummer fled to Chicago. Upon his return, he attempted to mislead investigators by lying about his whereabouts, his communication with witnesses, and his contact with firearms. Detectives were able to unravel his deceit, leading to his arrest and subsequent charges.
In November 2023, Joseph Plummer was formally charged with murder and gun-related offenses in connection with Rayna Garrett's death. Following a trial, a Muskegon County jury found him guilty on all counts, including second-degree murder, lying to police, and weapons charges. In July 2024, Plummer was sentenced for his crimes. The judge imposed a sentence of 46.8 to 100 years in prison, ensuring he would spend a significant portion of the remainder of his life behind bars for the senseless act of violence that took a young mother's life and devastated a community.
