Henry Thomas, a 19-year-old, was arraigned with a second-degree murder charge in Manhattan Criminal Court for fatally shooting 16-year-old Makhi Brown, who was known as a “peacemaker.” Thomas arrived at the scene in Soho on a CitiBike and was identified partially by his distinctive Air Jordans. He was captured on camera wearing black Air Jordans with red and yellow trim and was seen getting into the bike’s basket before the shooting took place. The incident occurred near Brown’s school, where he was fatally shot in the back of the head and the leg.
Brown was trying to mediate a fight between two groups when he was tragically killed. Investigators were able to identify Thomas and found the sneakers he was wearing in the video at his Upper East Side home. Thomas was arrested by the U.S. Marshals Service and the NYPD at his residence. In court, Thomas was wearing grey sweatpants and white high top sneakers with black trim and was cuffed behind his back. The Assistant District Attorney stated that Thomas “executed” Brown by shooting him in the head, while the defense attorney objected to the use of the term “executed.”
Despite the objections, the judge allowed the Assistant District Attorney to continue with her statement. Thomas was then informed that if he refused to attend court, proceedings would continue in his absence. Thomas was taken to Rikers Island correctional facility, where he is being held without bail. Family and friends of Thomas waved and blew kisses at him as he was escorted out of the courtroom, shouting “We love you” as he left. If convicted, Thomas faces a minimum sentence of 15 years to life and a maximum of 25 years to life for the murder of Brown, who was a member of a non-violence group known as “The GodSquad.”
Brown had played on a basketball team organized by the NYPD 67th Precinct Clergy Council, a group focused on promoting non-violence. The shooting occurred as Brown was trying to intervene in a dispute between two groups, highlighting his dedication to peacemaking. Thomas’ actions led to the tragic loss of a young life, sparking outrage and sorrow within the community. The court proceedings revealed the severity of the charges against Thomas, with the potential for a lengthy prison sentence if found guilty. The support and love shown by Thomas’ family and friends further emphasize the impact and consequences of his actions.
