Grand Rapids Jury Convicted Man of Double Murder
A Kent County jury found Casey Harmon Jr. guilty of killing two individuals in a 2023 shooting.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Violence
A jury convicted 21-year-old Casey Harmon Jr. on two counts of first-degree murder and two weapons charges for the deaths of Malik Eubanks and Anayia Rodriguez. The victims were killed in a shooting on Horton Avenue SE in Grand Rapids.
Why it matters
The conviction brings a close to the legal proceedings regarding the 2023 deaths of Eubanks and Rodriguez, who were found shot in the back of the head. Their young son was discovered unharmed at the scene of the crime.
A Kent County jury delivered a guilty verdict on Friday following a trial that featured testimony from witnesses. Harmon Jr. now faces a mandatory life sentence in prison, which is expected to be handed down later this fall.
The players
Casey Harmon Jr.
The 21-year-old was convicted of two counts of first-degree murder for the deaths of his victims.
Malik Eubanks
The 19-year-old was one of two victims killed in the shooting.
Anayia Rodriguez
The 20-year-old was one of two victims killed in the shooting.
The details
During the trial, authorities presented evidence including a gun and a bloody jacket linked to the shooting of 19-year-old Malik Eubanks and 20-year-old Anayia Rodriguez. The victims were discovered after being shot once in the back of the head.
Timeline
The double murder occurred in Grand Rapids on November 6, 2023.
Jury selection for the trial began on Monday.
Witnesses provided testimony beginning on Tuesday.
Closing statements were presented on Thursday.
The jury delivered the guilty verdict on Friday shortly after noon.
Legal Context
This conviction follows the established legal framework of the Michigan mandatory life sentence for first-degree murder. The verdict aligns with the state's stringent sentencing requirements for capital-level offenses occurring within its jurisdiction.
The conclusion of this trial provides closure to the local community regarding the violent incident on Horton Avenue SE. Residents may view the swift jury deliberation as a marker of the judicial process functioning in the wake of the 2023 tragedy.
The takeaway
The resolution of this case underscores the severe legal repercussions for first-degree murder in the state of Michigan. Community members should remain aware of local safety updates provided by city authorities following the conclusion of high-profile criminal trials.
What happens next
Casey Harmon Jr. is scheduled to be sentenced for his crimes later this fall.
Further reading
For more information on public safety, visit the Violence section.
