Los Angeles, California – Two men are facing murder charges in connection with the fatal shooting of a man at a restaurant in downtown Los Angeles. The victim, identified as Sidney Barrett Morris, 43, was shot and killed at Fixins Soul Kitchen on West Olympic Boulevard in November.
Phillip Pasco Clark, 33, of Los Angeles, and Santana Jermaine Kelly, 50, of Palmdale, have been charged with murder and conspiracy to commit a crime in connection with the case. Kelly also faces an additional charge of arson. Both men pleaded not guilty at their arraignment and are scheduled for a preliminary hearing in April.
The shooting took place while Morris was eating alone at the restaurant inside the L.A. Live entertainment complex. Clark allegedly entered the establishment and targeted Morris, resulting in the victim’s death at the scene.
Prosecutors have stated that Kelly played a role in planning the shooting, with the arson charge stemming from an attempt to destroy evidence by setting fire to the getaway car after the incident. Both Clark and Kelly are currently held on bail, with their arrest taking place in March.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, with details about the incident and the victim’s background raising questions about the circumstances surrounding the crime. The owners of Fixins Soul Kitchen expressed shock and sadness over the tragedy, extending their condolences to Morris’s family and loved ones.
Former NBA player and Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson, who owns Fixins Soul Kitchen, highlighted Morris’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and harmony in society, emphasizing the devastating impact of his untimely death. The Los Angeles County District Attorney reiterated the importance of holding those responsible for the crime accountable, underscoring the urgency of seeking justice in the wake of such a brazen act of violence.