Home / Crime and Justice / Double Murderer Gets Minimum 40 Years in Prison
Double Murderer Gets Minimum 40 Years in Prison
12 Sep
Summary
- McClendon sentenced for 2022 Roxborough High shooting.
- He received at least 40 years for two murders.
- Victim's family urges societal investment in arts and education.
Zaakir McClendon, the last charged suspect in the deadly 2022 shooting outside Roxborough High School, received his sentence on Friday. He was one of five gunmen involved in firing shots after a football scrimmage.
The incident resulted in the death of 14-year-old Nicholas Elizalde, who was an innocent bystander, and injured four others. McClendon also fatally shot 16-year-old Nafis Betrand Hill in April 2023 while evading capture for nearly three years.
McClendon pleaded guilty to both murders and was sentenced to a minimum of 40 years in prison. He briefly apologized in court, acknowledging his past actions and expressing a desire for change. Defense attorneys noted his remorse and challenging upbringing.
Victims' families voiced their feelings in court. Elizalde's grandmother expressed disrespect due to McClendon not looking at them during victim impact statements. His mother emphasized the need for society to invest in education and arts to prevent such violence.
