Vicksburg, Miss. – On Tuesday, Markevius Sturdivant pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in the Warren County Circuit Court for the killing of Shemar Jashad Smith. Judge Toni Terrett sentenced Sturdivant to 40 years in prison, with 12 years to serve in the Mississippi Department of Corrections.
The crime occurred on April 13, 2023, when officers were called to a shooting incident on King’s Drive in Waltersville Estate. A body was discovered nearby, and Smith was pronounced dead at the scene from multiple gunshot wounds.
In court, Sturdivant expressed deep remorse, apologizing to Smith’s family. “From the bottom of my heart I hope you will forgive me,” he said. “Nothing will bring Shemar back, but I’m deeply sorry for your loss and I’m begging the court to show mercy on my behalf.”
Smith’s grandmother also addressed the court, offering forgiveness despite the immense loss. “You took my grandson but I don’t hate you,” she said. “I pray that God will protect you and maybe one day you’ll see that your actions weren’t right.”
Sturdivant’s defense attorney, Dennis Sweet, requested a sentence that would allow for additional time suspended, but the judge ultimately imposed the 40-year sentence. Assistant District Attorney Branan Southerland represented the state during the proceedings.
