PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — One of three suspects charged with murder in the killing of Norfolk State University student Jahari George had his charges withdrawn on Wednesday.
The commonwealth had insufficient evidence to move forward in the case against Marquas Gregg, WAVY’s Sean Davis reports. However, the charges could be brought back at a later date.
“We withdraw all the charges against Mr. Gregg, because, while Mr. Gregg was present at the scene, presence at a scene by itself is not sufficient to prove the intent to commit a crime,” said Norfolk Commonwealth’s Attorney Ramin Fatehi in a statement. “Ethically, we had no choice but to withdraw the charges.”
Gregg and two other men, Cameron Brown and Camari Warren, were all charged with second-degree murder, conspiracy and use of a firearm in connection to the homicide.
Police said George, who was a junior at NSU, was shot and killed in an off-campus shooting on Gate House Road just after 11 p.m. on September 2, 2023.
NSU would hold a celebration of remembrance for George on campus, where his parents said he had a far-reaching impact.
“Jahari embarked on his junior year of college with an unwavering commitment to bring about positive change on campus, in the community, and the world at large,” said his mother, TeAnna George.
“Jahari’s character was defined by his boundless love, selflessness, and an infectious spirit that left a lasting mark on all who knew him. His energy, his smile, and his unwavering dedication to his loved ones made him a symbol of hope and inspiration,” said his father, Michael George. “His legacy of sincerity and his passion for helping others will forever illuminate the hearts of those who were privileged to know him.”
The two other suspects in the case have court dates scheduled for May 13. Fatehi said “the evidence against the other two codefendants is quite different, and we have every intention of proceeding against them.”