After nearly two years of heartbreak, the family of Nahzir Taylor, a high school student who was shot and killed after getting off his school bus in 2022, finally has a sense of closure. On Thursday, one of the two suspects in the case, Rodrizus Stafford, took a plea deal for second-degree murder and was sentenced to at least 13 years in prison.
What Happened on the Day of the Shooting?
The tragic incident took place near Robinson Church Road after Nahzir and his younger brother stepped off their school bus. Prosecutors say that Stafford, along with a group of teenagers, had followed the bus to Nahzir’s home.
Once the bus stopped, Stafford and the other teens jumped out of a car and chased Nahzir. That’s when Stafford fired several shots, hitting Nahzir in the head. His younger brother called 911, and the entire incident was captured on Ring doorbell cameras in the area.
What Was the Motive Behind the Shooting?
According to detectives, the shooting was a result of a fight that took place earlier that day. Some of Nahzir’s friends had reportedly beaten up Stafford, and the shooting was believed to be an act of revenge.
Stafford was 16 years old at the time of the crime. His defense lawyer, Joel Adelman, argued that the school should have done more to stop the conflict by removing or separating students involved in earlier fights.
A Sad Reflection of Today’s Society
In the courtroom, Judge Matt Osman said the case was deeply upsetting and represented bigger problems in society.
“In many ways, this case feels like a microcosm of so many of the societal issues we face these days,” he said. “That makes it profoundly sad.”
The defense pointed out that Stafford had two young children and came to court with eight pews full of family and friends showing support.