LYNCHBURG, Va. – The jury in the trial of 22-year-old Keon Palmer, accused of killing 19-year-old Ma’Kayvia Cabell in February 2024, began deliberations after both the prosecution and defense presented their closing arguments.
Palmer faces first-degree murder charges and charges related to the use of a firearm in a felony. The prosecution claims Palmer killed Cabell in a premeditated attack, while the defense argues Palmer acted in self-defense.
Cabell was found dead at a home on Locust Street after suffering multiple gunshot wounds. Palmer’s brother called the police after allegedly witnessing the incident.
Testimony revealed that earlier in the morning, Palmer and Cabell had argued. Witnesses testified that Palmer threw cash and a gun at Cabell and told her to leave. One witness said Palmer’s brother saw Cabell pointing the gun Palmer tossed at her in his direction.
The brother later testified that Palmer returned with another gun, paced around, and shot Cabell multiple times. In response, the defense argued Palmer acted out of fear for his safety, claiming that he feared for his life. The prosecution disagreed, asserting that Cabell was unarmed and holding only her phone and a taser at the time of the shooting.
In closing statements, the prosecution described Palmer’s actions as premeditated and malicious. The defense argued that Palmer had the right to use force in his own home. Additionally, the defense pointed to Cabell’s alleged mood disorder to explain Palmer’s fears.
However, the prosecution highlighted that Palmer had invited Cabell to his home and questioned the defense’s self-defense argument, pointing out that Palmer had tossed a loaded gun to her. Furthermore, the prosecution noted that Palmer had reportedly threatened Cabell multiple times prior to the incident.
The jury began deliberations around 6 p.m. on Thursday, and at 7:30 p.m., they decided to resume deliberations the following morning. As the jury continues to consider the case, the Lynchburg community remains anxious for the outcome, which will provide closure for the tragic death of Ma’Kayvia Cabell.
