In the early morning hours of March 4, 2015, the life of 28-year-old Donavin Lamar Guy was tragically cut short in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Responding to reports of gunfire, police arrived at a residence on Dickinson Street SE, near College Avenue, to find that Guy had been shot multiple times. He succumbed to his injuries at the scene. At the time of the incident, there were nine other people inside the home, including five children, who were all on the upper floor and unharmed.
The investigation revealed that the gunshots were specifically aimed at the first floor of the house where Guy was located.
Witnesses reported seeing two individuals dressed in dark clothing fleeing the area immediately after the shooting. A K9 unit was deployed to track the suspects, but the search was unsuccessful. The community was left shaken by the violent act that took the life of a man who was a father to three sons and a beloved family member. His death marked the second homicide in Grand Rapids for that year, prompting a dedicated effort from law enforcement to bring those responsible to justice.
Months later, in November 2015, a significant breakthrough was made in the investigation. The Grand Rapids Police Department announced the arrests of three individuals in connection with the murder of Donavin Lamar Guy. Allijha David Ashley and Devin Jamon Barnes, both 19 years old at the time, were arrested and faced serious charges. Ashley was charged with open murder, assault with intent to murder, gang membership, and felony firearm. Barnes was charged with assault with intent to murder and gang membership. A third individual, Matthew Lee Chaffin, was also charged with assault with intent to murder and gang membership. Following their arraignment, both Ashley and Barnes were denied bond.
