PHILADELPHIA, PA – District Attorney Larry Krasner and members of the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office Homicide and Non-Fatal Shooting Unit today announced the conviction and sentencing of Tahmir Banks for fatally shooting 41-year-old Nicholas Troxell on SEPTA’s Market-Frankford Line on November 17, 2021.
Banks was found guilty of third-degree murder, criminal conspiracy, possession of an instrument of crime, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Today, Banks was sentenced to 30 to 60 years in state prison.S
The fatal shooting occurred when Troxell, a father of four, was riding a SEPTA train near the Erie-Torresdale Station. Banks and two accomplices, who were also charged, approached Troxell in an attempted robbery. An altercation ensued, during which Banks fired several shots, striking Troxell multiple times. The suspects fled the scene immediately after the shooting.
Surveillance footage from the SEPTA train helped investigators identify Banks and his accomplices. This case highlights the importance of increased safety measures and surveillance on public transportation to aid in the prosecution of violent crimes. District Attorney Krasner expressed his gratitude to the SEPTA police and Philadelphia police for their swift response and thorough investigation, which led to the conviction and sentencing of Banks.