An Onondaga County jury in New York convicted a 27-year-old man of second-degree murder for the tragic killing of an 11-month-old infant in a shooting incident. Jesse Outley faced charges of murder, three counts of attempted murder, and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon in connection to the devastating event.
The incident took place in April 2021 while two women were driving with their children in the backseat of the vehicle. Shots were fired, resulting in the tragic death of young Dior Harris and injuries to an 8-year-old and a 3-year-old. The driver of the vehicle, Chavez Ocasio, initially faced arrest shortly after the shooting but delayed revealing Outley’s role for two years before testifying during the trial.
Ocasio, having pleaded guilty last year to second-degree attempted murder and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, played a key role in providing crucial information regarding Outley’s involvement in the shooting. The jury dedicated nearly three days to carefully deliberating the complex and heartbreaking case, ultimately reaching a verdict that held Outley accountable for the senseless violence that took a young life and caused harm to others.
The conviction of Outley serves as a form of justice for the innocent victims affected by the traumatic events that unfolded that fateful day. The outcome of the trial highlights the importance of thorough investigation and the courage of witnesses to come forward and share critical information in seeking accountability for acts of violence within communities.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of such a tragic incident, the conviction brings a sense of closure and validation for the families impacted by the loss and injuries resulting from the senseless act of violence. The verdict sends a clear message that such harmful actions will not go unpunished in society, and emphasizes the importance of upholding justice and ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals, especially the most vulnerable among us.