Today (Sept 2), a Notice of Information was filed charging Connor Lewis (16) as an adult with one (1) count of Second-Degree Murder (LF) in the shooting death of Artavious Quarterman (18) on August 5, 2020 in Sanford, Florida. 

 

On Wednesday August 5, 2020 at approximately 8:06 pm, Sanford Police responded to 1200 Magnolia Ave. after a reported shooting with injuries. In a recorded 911 call, LEWIS claimed that five (5) females were outside his home making threats and banging on the doors and windows. During that call, LEWIS fired a shot through the front door glass window striking Quarterman in the head. Paramedics transported Quarterman to the hospital where he later died from his injuries.

 

In interviews with Sanford investigators, LEWIS claimed he was in fear for his life and acted in self-defense. However, evidence from the investigation did not support that and LEWIS was arrested for murder as a juvenile offender. 

 

After a careful and thorough review of the reports, testimony, and evidence from the investigation, prosecutors confirmed that LEWIS was not acting in self-defense when he shot Quarterman, and had no legal basis to cite protection from prosecution under the "Stand Your Ground" provision of Florida law. Due to the loss of life and serious violent nature of the crime, the State will prosecute LEWIS as an adult, subjecting him to sanctions appropriate for the offense.

 

LEWIS had previously waived arraignment through his attorney and his next court appearance has not yet been set in this case. LEWIS will be transferred from the Juvenile Detention Center to the Seminole County Jail where he'll remain in custody on No Bond.