On June 18, 2018, rapper Jahseh Dwayne Ricardo Onfroy, better known as XXXTentacion, was shot and killed in his car outside a motorcycle dealership in Deerfield Beach, Florida. The news of his death sent shockwaves through the music industry and his fans around the world. In December 2019, three individuals were convicted of his murder. Here is what we know about them.
1. Dedrick Devonshay Williams
Dedrick Devonshay Williams was the first person arrested in connection with XXXTentacion’s murder. He was taken into custody two days after the shooting and charged with first-degree murder without premeditation. Williams was identified as the driver of the SUV that blocked XXXTentacion’s car before the shooting took place.
During the trial, Williams’ defense attorney argued that he was not involved in the actual shooting and did not know that his passenger, Michael Boatwright, was going to shoot XXXTentacion. However, prosecutors argued that Williams was an active participant in the crime and had helped plan it.
In March 2019, Williams pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and was sentenced to 28 years in prison.
2. Michael Boatwright
Michael Boatwright was arrested in July 2018, nearly a month after XXXTentacion’s murder. He was charged with first-degree murder and robbery with a deadly weapon. Boatwright was identified as one of the two gunmen who approached XXXTentacion’s car and shot him.
During the trial, Boatwright’s defense attorney argued that he suffered from mental illness and was not capable of planning or carrying out the murder. However, prosecutors presented evidence that Boatwright had bragged about the killing to his cellmate while in jail.
In September 2019, Boatwright was found guilty of first-degree murder and robbery with a deadly weapon. He was sentenced to life in prison without parole.
3. Trayvon Newsome
Trayvon Newsome was the last person arrested in connection with XXXTentacion’s murder. He turned himself in to police in August 2018 and was charged with first-degree murder and robbery with a deadly weapon. Newsome was identified as the second gunman who approached XXXTentacion’s car and shot him.
During the trial, Newsome’s defense attorney argued that he was not involved in the murder and had only been present at the scene because he wanted to buy a motorcycle from XXXTentacion. However, prosecutors presented evidence that Newsome had helped plan the robbery and had been armed with a gun during the crime.
In December 2019, Newsome was found guilty of first-degree murder and robbery with a deadly weapon. He is currently awaiting sentencing and could face life in prison without parole.
The murder of XXXTentacion was a tragic event that shook the music industry and his fans around the world. While justice has been served for his death, it is important to remember that three young men have lost their freedom and will spend years behind bars. It is a reminder that violence is never the answer and that we must work towards creating a safer and more peaceful society for all.
