WASHINGTON, DC – Two individuals affiliated with the Wellington Park Crew received their sentences today for their roles in the tragic shooting that led to the death of 10-year-old Makiyah Wilson on July 16, 2018. The incident also left several wounded in a Washington, D.C., apartment complex courtyard.
Isaiah Murchison, 23, was handed a 60-year prison sentence by D.C. Superior Court Judge Robert Okun after a conviction on June 13. His charges included first-degree murder while armed, conspiracy to commit a crime of violence, involvement in a criminal street gang, multiple assault counts with intent to kill while armed, and associated firearm offenses.
Marquell Cobbs, aged 21, was sentenced to 72 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. On June 13, Cobbs was found guilty of conspiracy to commit a crime of violence. The jury acquitted him of charges linked to Makiyah Wilson’s death, but confirmed his association with the Wellington Park Crew.
On the evening of July 16, 2018, Murchison, Gregory Taylor, Qujuan Thomas, and two other associates ventured to the Clay Terrace area in Northeast Washington, D.C., heavily armed. The group discharged over 50 rounds, shooting indiscriminately at the Clay Terrace courtyard. Makiyah Wilson, who was on her home’s front stoop, became a fatal casualty. Other individuals in the vicinity were also injured. Two fellow gang associates, Quentin Michals and Darrise Jeffers, facilitated the shooting by providing weapons and a vehicle. Although some witnesses observed the preparation for this assault, none stepped forward with information about the culprits. The prosecution built its case using forensic findings, defendants’ social media remarks, and motive evidence.
Judge Okun is set to pass sentences on the remaining four defendants on October 20. In concluding remarks, both U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Acting Chief Pamela Smith of the MPD praised the diligent efforts of all involved in the investigation and prosecution of this case.