Five men in Florida will spend the rest of their lives in prison for the death of 4-year-old Suni Bell, who was killed when gunfire tore through her uncle’s car. The little girl was in the back seat with her mother and uncle when bullets struck the vehicle. While the adults were unharmed, Suni was hit and later died.
According to the Office of the State Attorney, 13th Judicial District, James Denson, Zvante Sampson, Quandarious Hammond, Jaylin Bedward, and Andrew Thompson were convicted on Sept. 17, 2025, of first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and shooting at or within a vehicle. All five received mandatory life sentences.
The incident occurred in August 2021 when surveillance footage showed the men following Suni’s family car in multiple vehicles. Once they caught up, they opened fire, striking the 4-year-old.
“They were on their way to a family gathering and couldn’t find the address, so they pulled over to call family,” said Erin Maloney, communications director for the State Attorney’s Office. “The theory was the men mistook Suni’s family for someone who drove a similar car.”
Maloney added that Suni’s mother testified her daughter repeatedly called out “Mommy” as the gunshots rang out.
Although not all of the men fired their weapons, prosecutors argued they conspired together and were therefore equally responsible.
Judge Robin Fuson told the defendants during sentencing, “You don’t get to do what you did and walk amongst us. Nobody put you in prison — you put yourselves there.”
Suni’s mother, Mary Harrison, who knew one of the defendants personally, tearfully addressed the court:
“I am very hurt. I know you guys probably did not mean to do it, but it happened. My heart goes out to all of you.”
Her mother, Drial Harrison, spoke of the pain caused by “senseless gun violence,” saying, “This hurts deep. It’s not something you can put a Band-Aid on and heal from.”
Suni’s uncle, John Young, also addressed the men:
“Once that bullet comes out of that chamber, you cannot bring it back. You’re destroying families.”
State Attorney Suzi Lopez said in a statement, “Suni Bell should have just started third grade, laughing, learning, and enjoying all the things she loved. Nothing can erase this tragedy, but today’s verdict ensures those responsible will be held accountable. We stand with her family in their pursuit of justice.”
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
Leave a Reply