Deontay Willingham, 35, of Bridgeton, NJ, received a 26-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to charges of second-degree murder, second-degree robbery, and two counts of possession of a firearm. (Photo by KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA)
A New Jersey man has been sentenced to more than two decades behind bars for the fatal shooting and robbery of a Wilmington resident.
On April 9, 2025, Deontay Willingham, 35, of Bridgeton, NJ, received a 26-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to charges of second-degree murder, second-degree robbery, and two counts of possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. The case was the result of an investigation conducted by the Wilmington Police Department and prosecuted by the Delaware Department of Justice.
The charges stem from an incident on June 11, 2023, when Willingham approached 37-year-old Dennis Davis near East 23rd Street and North Market Street in Wilmington. After initiating a conversation, Willingham shot Davis twice without provocation and stole a necklace pendant from him. Davis was taken to Christiana Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Officials from both the Department of Justice and Wilmington Police emphasized the collaborative efforts that led to the conviction.
“I am deeply grateful to our prosecutors and the Wilmington Police Department for their hard work and dedication to this case,” said Attorney General Kathy Jennings.
“Justice has been served, although we know nothing can bring back the life that was stolen by senseless gun violence. Our hearts are with the victim’s family and loved ones at this difficult time.”
“This lengthy prison sentence reflects the diligence and dedication of both our detectives and our partners at the Delaware Department of Justice,” said Wilmington Police Chief Wilfredo Campos.
“I appreciate everyone’s efforts to hold this violent offender accountable and to deliver justice on behalf of the victim and his family.”
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Claudia is a Philadelphia-based journalist and reporter passionate about storytelling that informs and engages the community. Claudia, a proud Temple University graduate, has built a career covering impactful stories and creating compelling content across digital and print media platforms. With a strong background in writing, editing, and research, Claudia has worked on various topics, from local news to in-depth features, always striving to deliver meaningful and accurate reporting.
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