State Seeks Life for Beach Shooter

Five. That is the number of times prosecutor Casey Hughes said Tamarius Davis fired at Dustin Wakefield. Hughes told the judge on Wednesday that the state is requesting a life sentence for Davis, the 27-year-old man who killed the 21-year-old tourist in 2021.

The sentencing hearing concluded its third day on Wednesday. Davis had pleaded guilty earlier this year to second-degree murder. The defense team requested a maximum sentence of 25 years.

The shooting occurred in the 1400 block of Ocean Drive. Wakefield was visiting from Colorado and was eating with his family at La Cerveceria. Davis approached the table and pointed a firearm at Wakefield's infant son. Wakefield begged for his son's life before being shot in front of his wife and the 1-year-old.

Hughes argued that the family has already received a permanent punishment. He stated that the Wakefields will mourn the loss of Dustin for the rest of their lives. He argued that Davis deserves the same life sentence.

Defense attorney Juan Mourin argued for leniency while Davis sat in an orange jumpsuit and shackles. Mourin said Davis took psychedelic mushrooms before the shooting and was not aware of his actions. He clarified that the defense was not seeking an excuse, but rather highlighting Davis's remorse. Mourin noted that Davis privately expressed guilt, muttering that he never thought he could do something like this.

Davis testified on Tuesday. He apologized to the family and said he would continue to pray for them. He described his actions as inexcusable.

Wakefield's mother, Lora, spoke to the court. She said she had forgiven Davis on the first day of the hearing. She asked for a firm outcome to show that consequences exist for the choices people make. She said, "It needs to stop. It needs to stop. Our children are being killed now."

The judge closed the hearing by saying she has a great deal to consider. She is scheduled to hand down the sentence on Thursday morning.