On a cold February morning in 2018, the community of Pleasantville, New Jersey, was shaken by the discovery of a young man's untimely death. Raphael G. Terrigino, a 30-year-old Hispanic male from the neighboring city of Atlantic City, was found inside his vehicle on Stenton Place. Police had responded to a report of shots fired in the area around 7:45 a.m. on February 2nd, and their investigation soon confirmed the tragic reality: Raphael had been fatally shot.
An autopsy would later determine that the cause of death was a gunshot wound to the head. Known affectionately as 'Raph,' he was remembered by loved ones for his infectious laugh, his passion for music, and above all, his unwavering dedication to his family and friends, especially his young daughter.
The investigation into Raphael's death was a collaborative effort involving the Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit, along with the Egg Harbor Township and Pleasantville Police Departments. Their work led them to a suspect, Troy Demby, a 36-year-old man from Egg Harbor Township. The evidence suggested a sinister plot, with authorities revealing that Demby had rented a car and acquired a burner phone before arranging to meet with Raphael. The motive for this fatal encounter was believed to be robbery. The investigation culminated in Demby's arrest, where he was also found in possession of a significant quantity of cocaine, adding further charges to his name.
Troy Demby was indicted on multiple serious charges, including first-degree murder, felony murder, robbery, and several weapons offenses. His subsequent trial brought the harrowing details of Raphael's final moments to light. While the jury acquitted Demby of felony murder, they found him guilty of the more direct charge of murder, along with the other related offenses. In October of 2020, justice was served as Troy Demby was sentenced to 45 years in state prison. The terms of his sentence stipulate that he must serve at least 85 percent of his term before becoming eligible for parole, ensuring that he will spend decades behind bars for the violent act that cut short the life of a beloved father, son, and friend.
