August 16th 2024.
A tragic incident has shaken the Aurora community this week, as a former professional MMA fighter and well-known activist, Lumumba Sayers, has been charged with first-degree murder. The victim, 28-year-old Malcolm Watson, was fatally shot during a child's birthday party at a park in Commerce City. According to police, the motive behind the shooting was retaliation for Sayers' son's death.
During a hearing on Thursday, Sayers appeared in Adams County District Court where his bail was increased from $1 million to $5 million. It was revealed in the court that Sayers had shot Watson multiple times, including once in the head, as he was carrying party supplies for his son's birthday celebration. After the shooting, Sayers went to talk to a man and a woman in a nearby car before returning to the victim's body and attempting to hide a handgun under it.
The police arrived at the scene and arrested Sayers as witnesses identified him as the shooter. Sadly, Watson was pronounced dead at the scene. Witnesses have come forward and shared that they believe Sayers' actions were in retaliation for the death of his son, Lumumba Sayers Jr., who was killed in a shooting involving one of Watson's friends almost a year ago. Lumumba Sayers Jr. was one of two people killed in a shooting in Denver's Five Points neighborhood.
The suspect in that shooting, 24-year-old Tyrell Braxton, was arrested by Denver police on suspicion of first-degree murder. However, no public court records are available in the case as it has been sealed. Braxton is currently on trial in federal court for a weapons charge related to the August 2023 incident. He was indicted by a grand jury in January and the trial is expected to conclude this week.
Sayers' son's death had a profound impact on him, as he was dedicated to preventing gun violence in the community. In an interview with Denver7 reporters, Sayers spoke about his son's passion for creating a safe environment and his frequent presence at his father's gym, the Heavy Hands Heavy Hearts Center in Aurora. The center, which Sayers is a founder of, provides support and resources to youth and adults in need.
During Thursday's hearing, defense attorneys described Sayers as an "exceptional" man and highlighted his positive contributions to the community. On the other hand, prosecutors argued that he posed a danger to both the community and Watson's family, as well as being a flight risk. In the end, the judge ordered a $5 million cash-only bail, stating that it was the only acceptable option in this case.
As this tragedy continues to unfold, Sayers' next court date is yet to be determined. Our hearts go out to all those affected by this senseless act of violence. Stay informed and sign up to receive crime news directly to your inbox.
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