In a tragic turn of events following a heated argument, 35-year-old Donald Eason Jr., a Black male, sustained fatal injuries in Baltimore, Maryland. The incident occurred on November 14, 2021, in the valet area of the Residence Inn by Marriott located on the 800 block of North Wolfe Street. His wife, Shakurah Eason, was behind the wheel of a car and struck him twice. Donald Eason Jr. was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment but succumbed to his injuries six days later, on November 20, 2021.
Authorities launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Video surveillance footage from the scene played a crucial role in the case, capturing the altercation and showing Shakurah Eason running over her husband. Based on this evidence, she was arrested and subsequently charged in connection with his death. At the time of the incident, it was determined that her blood alcohol content was double the legal limit.
Shakurah Eason was charged with second-degree murder. Following legal proceedings, she was found guilty on August 24, 2023. During the sentencing hearing on January 11, 2024, the court heard emotional victim impact statements from Donald's family. His sister spoke of his hopes to become a personal trainer after having been incarcerated for over a decade. His mother lamented that he would miss significant milestones in his children's lives. Shakurah Eason was ultimately sentenced to 20 years in prison, with all but 12 years suspended. Her sentence also includes five years of probation upon her release and mandatory participation in drug and alcohol addiction treatment, as well as domestic violence and anger management courses. She will receive credit for the time she has already served.