Puyallup, Wash. — In a tragic turn of events, a young woman was shot and killed during an attempted robbery last year, prompting legal repercussions for several individuals involved. On Wednesday, two men received prison sentences for their roles, signaling an end to a months-long investigation by local authorities.
Gianna Stone, 22, suffered a gunshot wound to the head during the incident on the evening of February 25, 2024. Local police received reports of gunfire in the area around 9 p.m. but arrived to find only shell casings on the street. Shortly afterward, Stone was taken to a Tacoma hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
In June 2024, following a thorough investigation, law enforcement arrested three suspects in connection with the case: Noah Maurice Loyd Branch, 18; Daemeion Carmello Purdy, 18; and Ethan Nordgren, 19. Their arrests followed a series of leads that tied them to the scene of the crime.
During the court proceedings, Nordgren pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter, receiving a nearly eight-year prison sentence. Loyd Branch, who faced charges of first-degree manslaughter and unlawful possession of a firearm, was sentenced to over nine years in prison. In stark contrast, Purdy awaits trial, scheduled for July 8.
Emotions ran high in the courtroom as Stone’s mother addressed the court following the sentencing. “There will be no forgiveness in my mind, body, or soul for you,” she expressed, emphasizing the deep-seated pain and anger that came with her daughter’s loss.
Both Loyd Branch and Nordgren conveyed their remorse during the proceedings. “I’m truly sorry for the senseless and wrongful death of such a young person with so much promise,” Loyd Branch stated, reflecting on the gravity of their actions. Meanwhile, Nordgren described his regret, admitting that poor choices led him to this devastating outcome.
Investigators determined that the shooting occurred after the suspects approached a group of five friends, demanding their belongings. Stone was sitting in the back of a car when the driver attempted to flee. In a desperate act, the suspects fired at the vehicle, ultimately striking Stone.
Evidence suggests that either Loyd Branch or Purdy fired the fatal shot while Nordgren was allegedly driving with the headlights off in an effort to evade detection. Authorities managed to identify them through a vehicle linked to a serious collision shortly after the robbery attempt.
As the community grapples with the fallout from this incident, the ongoing trial of Daemeion Carmello Purdy will bring further attention to the tragedy that took the life of a promising young woman. The case highlights the complex issues surrounding youth crime and the profound impact violence has on families and communities.