Syracuse, New York – A 27-year-old man was convicted of second-degree murder for fatally shooting an 11-month-old infant while she was riding in the back of a car. Jesse Outley was found guilty of murder, along with three counts of attempted murder and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon by an Onondaga County jury.
The tragic incident, which occurred in April 2021, involved two women and their children in the vehicle’s backseat when shots were fired. The innocent victim, Dior Harris, lost her life at only 11 months old, while an 8-year-old and a 3-year-old sustained injuries in the shooting.
The driver of the car, Chavez Ocasio, faced arrest shortly after the shooting but waited two years before revealing Outley’s involvement to authorities. Ocasio’s testimony during the trial played a crucial role in the case. Last year, Ocasio pleaded guilty to second-degree attempted murder and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.
Following nearly three days of deliberation, the jury reached a verdict, finding Outley guilty on multiple charges related to the tragic shooting. The trial shed light on the devastating impact of gun violence on innocent lives and families, highlighting the need for justice and accountability in such cases. The conviction brought a sense of closure and justice for the victims and their loved ones, as they continue to cope with the aftermath of the senseless act of violence.
The community’s response to the verdict reflects a collective call for safer neighborhoods and stricter measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing root causes of gun violence and working towards a safer, more secure environment for all residents. As efforts to promote gun safety and reduce crime continue, the justice system’s role in holding perpetrators accountable remains essential in upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice for victims of violent crimes.