A long-awaited break in a 2023 homicide case was announced Tuesday by the Martinsville Police Department.
After nearly two years of investigation, authorities revealed that Jahil Arman Martin, 23, of Greensboro, North Carolina, has been arrested and charged with the first-degree murder of Nyjeon Dameae Brandon, a 20-year-old Martinsville man who was killed in a “drive-beside” shooting on July 9, 2023.
Martinsville Police Chief Rob Fincher led the press conference, providing chilling new details about the shooting and its aftermath.
The incident occurred on Commonwealth Boulevard, near the heart of Martinsville, when two cars engaged in a gunfight while traveling side-by-side.
Police say Brandon was shot while inside one of the vehicles, and despite being rushed to the hospital, he later died from his injuries.
"This was not a random act. This was an outright execution," said Chief Fincher during the press briefing. "It was a premeditated murder, and the victim, Nyjeon Brandon, was the intended target."
Fincher further emphasized the calculated nature of the shooting, describing it as "deliberate and organized" and adding that the evidence ultimately led to the arrest of Martin.
The investigation was complex and time-consuming, with Fincher explaining that physical evidence, including critical traffic camera footage, played a major role in moving the case forward.
The video of the drive-by shooting, which is expected to be part of the trial, was crucial in linking Martin to the crime. “Once these key pieces of evidence came back with the results it did, it allowed us to move forward and make the arrest,” said Fincher.
While Martin is the first to be arrested in the case, Chief Fincher suggested that there may be more arrests to come.
Investigators are continuing to gather information, including from witnesses and those connected to the victim. "This is likely not going to be the only arrest in this case," Fincher noted. "We are continuing our efforts in the investigation, and there are likely to be additional arrests that come about."
In a significant revelation, Fincher confirmed that Martin and Brandon knew each other, and some of the individuals who were with Brandon at the time of the shooting may also face charges.
Two people inside Brandon’s car were also shot that night, and some of the people involved in the incident had not cooperated with authorities during the initial investigation.
The case, which has been deeply difficult for the Brandon family, continues to unfold.
Fincher assured the media that investigators have remained in touch with Brandon's family, keeping them informed as the investigation progresses. "We know how hard this has been for them, and we're committed to bringing justice," he said.
The extradition process for Martin has already begun, as authorities work to bring him to Virginia to face charges. Chief Fincher concluded the press conference by reiterating his commitment to seeking justice for Nyjeon Brandon and his family.
“We will continue working until all those involved are held accountable,” he said.
As the investigation remains ongoing, Martinsville authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
Contact Information: Lieutenant Richard BarrowPhone: 276-403-5458Crime Stoppers Tip Line: 276-632-7463
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