News Summary
A Newport News jury has acquitted Tigre Reynolds Anthony II of all charges in the execution-style murder of Jamari Davis. After lengthy deliberation, the jury found the evidence insufficient to prove Anthony’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The case has sparked discussions regarding the judicial system’s challenges in handling violent crimes, as community leaders mourn the loss of Davis, remembered for his promise and dedication.
Newport News, VA – A jury in Newport News has acquitted 21-year-old Tigre Reynolds Anthony II of all charges related to the execution-style murder of 16-year-old Jamari Davis. After deliberating for more than eight hours across two days, the jury reached a unanimous verdict on October 16, 2023, despite initial indications of a hung jury that had previously favored acquittal at a ratio of 10-2.
The trial marks a significant moment as it represents the longest deliberation circuit court judge Christopher Papile has witnessed in 125 jury trials. The complexities surrounding the case played a crucial role in the jury’s decision-making process, with legal discussions emphasizing both the prosecution’s and defense’s positions.
Jamari Davis was fatally shot in the back of the head with a .38-caliber handgun outside the Courthouse Green Apartments on October 15, 2021. The incident involved two other individuals: Anthony, then 19, and 17-year-old Mackenzie N. Smith, who were originally charged with murder, conspiracy, and firearm offenses. A separate 15-year-old was also arrested, but charges against this individual were dropped later.
Evidence presented during the trial included ring camera footage showing two individuals fleeing the scene. However, this footage did not conclusively identify the shooter. Smith, who was apprehended locally in October 2023, testified that he believed Anthony acted violently due to a misinterpretation of Davis’s rap song as disrespectful. This testimony, along with text messages indicating Anthony’s emotional state post-shooting, formed the basis of the prosecution’s argument.
Despite the evidence put forward by the prosecution, the jury found it insufficient to determine that Anthony was the shooter beyond a reasonable doubt. The defense’s strategy revolved around highlighting the lack of clear evidence linking Anthony conclusively to the crime, arguing that the prosecution did not meet the burden of proof required for a murder conviction.
Following the jury’s deliberation process, there was a notable shift in perspectives. After the judge encouraged further discussions among jurors, they transitioned to an 11-1 verdict before arriving at a unanimous decision in favor of acquittal. Anthony was expected to be released from custody on the evening the verdict was announced.
Jamari Davis’s death has left a void in the community, remembered by many as a dedicated member of his church and a young individual full of promise. Community leaders expressed their sorrow over the tragic end of a life so prematurely lost and emphasized the impact of his absence on those who knew him.
In contrast, Smith is scheduled for sentencing on September 5 for lesser charges related to the incident. The varying outcomes of the trials underscore the ongoing challenges the judicial system faces when dealing with violent crimes and the complexities involved in establishing culpability.
The case continues to resonate within the Newport News community, emphasizing the need for both justice and healing in the wake of such devastating circumstances.
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Additional Resources
- 13 News Now: Zai Twond Perry’s Case
- Google Search: Zai Twond Perry
- Wavy: City Settles with Victim’s Family
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Newport News
- WTKR: Mathews County Arson Case
- Newport News Times: Murder Suspect’s Trial
- LA Times: Newport Beach Killing
- Google News: Newport Beach Killing
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
