LOS ANGELES, CA – Two men are facing murder charges for the killing of California State University executive Sidney Barrett Morris at an L.A. Live restaurant in late November. Phillip Pasco Clark, 33, and Santana Jermaine Kelly, 50, have been identified as the suspects in the fatal shooting that took place on November 28.
According to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office, Morris was shot in the back of the head while dining alone at the restaurant. The brazen and alarming nature of the shooting has led to the announcement of murder charges against the two men.
District Attorney George Gascón expressed condolences to Morris’ family, highlighting the commitment to bringing accountability to those responsible for the heinous crime. The execution-style killing of Morris sent shockwaves through the community, as he was known for his work in fostering inclusivity and harmony within society.
Morris, who served as the equity and diversity director at California State University Northridge, was rushed to a local hospital after the shooting but was pronounced dead. Another woman in the restaurant was also injured by gunfire but is in stable condition after receiving medical treatment.
Clark and Kelly have both pleaded not guilty to the charges and are scheduled for a preliminary hearing on April 25. The allegations suggest that Clark fired the fatal shot, while Kelly is accused of aiding in planning the murder and providing support, including setting fire to the getaway car in an attempt to destroy evidence.
If convicted, Kelly faces a maximum sentence of 100 years to life, while Clark faces a maximum sentence of 85 years to life. Both defendants remain in custody with bail set at $3.06 million and $4.06 million, respectively. The motive behind the killing has not been disclosed by the District Attorney’s office.