In the autumn of 2010, the life of a bright-eyed six-year-old boy, Jonaries Holden, was tragically cut short in Flint, Michigan. On the night of November 1st, while sleeping in the backseat of his father's car, Jonaries was struck by a single bullet. His twin brother and another young child were also in the vehicle but were unharmed. Jonaries was rushed to Hurley Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries the following day.
The shooting sent shockwaves through the community, marking the city's 55th homicide of the year.
The investigation into the senseless killing quickly focused on a dispute over a small debt. It was revealed that Jonaries's father, Johnny Holden, owed $60 to a man named DaVontrae J. Benton. In a devastating turn of events, Benton fired a shot into Holden's vehicle, a violent act stemming from the argument over money, which ultimately claimed the life of an innocent child. A couple of days after the shooting, the 25-year-old Benton turned himself into the authorities.
DaVontrae Benton was charged with second-degree murder, four counts of assault with intent to murder, and felony firearm. Although a plea deal for manslaughter was initially considered, the case proceeded to a jury trial. In March 2012, a Genesee County Circuit Court jury found Benton guilty on all counts. The following month, he was sentenced to a term of 31 years and 3 months to 50 years in prison for his role in the death of Jonaries Holden. During the sentencing, Benton expressed remorse for the 'frivolous argument' that led to the tragic loss of a young life.
