TAMPA, FL – Five men have received life sentences in connection with the killing of a 4-year-old girl during a drive-by shooting. The sentencing occurred on Wednesday morning following a jury verdict delivered earlier this month.
Andrew Thompson, 26, James Denson, 28, Jaylin Bedward, 26, Quandarious Hammond, 32, and Zvante Sampson, 34, were found guilty of first-degree murder, attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and shooting into an occupied vehicle. The boys were involved in a violent incident that took place on August 22, 2021, when Suni Bell was shot and killed while riding in a car with her family.
During the sentencing, Judge Robin Fuson addressed the defendants directly, stating, “You don’t get to do what you did and walk amongst us.” The judge emphasized that the quintet had made choices leading to their imprisonment.
On the day of the shooting, Suni and her family were driving along Hillsborough Avenue when they were pursued by several vehicles. The attack resulted in multiple gunshots fired, with one bullet striking and killing the child in the backseat.
Surveillance footage presented during the trial documented the barrage of gunfire, with law enforcement recovering approximately 40 bullet casings from the scene. Prosecutors maintained that while the exact shooter could not be identified, the actions of all five men contributed to the fatal incident.
Assistant State Attorney John Terry argued that the defendants acted with intent to kill, targeting the occupants of the vehicle in which Suni was riding. Defense attorneys did not present any witnesses during the trial, suggesting that it was impossible to prove who fired the fatal shot.
The jury ultimately sided with the prosecution after a two-week trial. Judge Fuson highlighted the tragic consequences of the actions taken that day, stating that no one won in this situation and that families on both sides have been destroyed.
During the sentencing, several family members of Suni provided impact statements. One relative encouraged the defendants to reflect on their actions and advocate against gun violence. Another expressed sympathy, stating, “I know you probably did not mean to do it, but the outcome did happen.”
Emotional statements from Suni’s family revealed the profound loss they experienced. Suni’s grandmother lamented the devastation caused by the shooting, emphasizing the tragic fate of the young girl.
The court proceedings have reiterated the far-reaching impact of gun violence and the heartbreaking consequences that stem from such actions.