Two Men Receive Life Sentences for Toddler’s Drive-By Murder in Pittsburgh
In a tragic incident that unfolded in downtown Pittsburgh last year, two individuals, Markez Anger, 25, and Londell Falconer, 27, have been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder of 18-month-old De’Avry Thomas. De’Avry was fatally shot while seated in his mother’s car during a drive-by shooting.
The incident occurred in May 2022, near the well-known PPG Place complex. Prosecutors revealed that Falconer was behind the wheel of a vehicle, with Anger as his passenger. During the drive, Anger fired more than a dozen shots at another vehicle. Tragically, one of those bullets struck De’Avry, who was in the back seat of his mother’s car. He was pronounced dead at the scene, while his mother remained unharmed.
Security cameras captured the horrifying moment when Anger leaned out of the passenger-side window and opened fire at the vehicle De’Avry was in. Startled bystanders began to flee the scene. Later, investigators discovered 13 bullet holes in the targeted vehicle. On the North Side of the city, where the assailants abandoned their vehicle, security footage showed Falconer exiting the driver’s seat. Additionally, fingerprints belonging to the defendants were found on a discarded can and the vehicle’s roof, further linking them to the crime.
Heartbreaking Testimony from De’Avry’s Mother
During the trial, De’Avry’s mother, Dea’Shea Green, emotionally recounted her ordeal. She revealed that she struggles to find peace at night as the traumatic events of that fateful day replay in her mind. “It hurts me even more to know that when I found my baby, there was nothing I could do but hold him and wait for help,” she expressed.
Despite the overwhelming evidence against them, both defendants maintained their innocence, criticized their legal representation, and vowed to pursue new trials. In a moment of remorse, Anger conveyed his apologies to the victim’s family, acknowledging the pain they have endured. Falconer, on the other hand, expressed his deep familiarity with De’Avry, having known him since birth, and lamented the loss of the child’s promising future.
Judge’s Stern Verdict
Judge Bruce Beemer delivered the mandatory life-without-parole sentences, characterizing the shooting as a “brazen, reckless, and intentional act” that tragically claimed the life of an innocent child. In addition to the life sentences, Anger received an additional 22½ to 45 years for conspiracy, attempted homicide, and firearms charges, while Falconer was handed another 15 to 30 years for conspiracy and attempted homicide.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of violence in our communities, particularly when it claims the life of an innocent child.