In the early hours of August 31, 2020, the life of 20-year-old Jamaria Lee Anthony Starkes was tragically cut short in his hometown of Petersburg, Virginia. A young man known for his creative spirit, Jamaria was a talented artist with a passion for drawing, cooking, and creating rap music. He even designed his own clothing logos, leaving a mark of his vibrant personality on those who knew him.
His smile was said to be infectious, a lasting memory for his family and friends.
The night he died, police were called to the 300 block of Mistletoe Street around 3:15 a.m. for a report of a shooting. Upon arrival, they discovered Jamaria suffering from a gunshot wound. He was rushed to a local hospital, but his injuries proved to be fatal, and he succumbed to them shortly after.
The investigation into his death led to the arrest of another 20-year-old Petersburg resident, Xavier Butts. At the time of his arrest in connection with Jamaria's death, Butts was already incarcerated at the Riverside Regional Jail in Prince George County on unrelated charges. He was subsequently charged with second-degree murder and the use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.
