Jury finds Cheektowaga woman guilty as accomplice in shooting that killed 3-year-old boy and injured 3 others outside of Ferry Grider Homes complex

Submitted by the Erie County District Attorney’s Office

Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn on Friday announced a jury found 27-year-old Jonay Robinson of Cheektowaga guilty of one count of murder in the second degree (class “A-II” felony), one count of assault in the first degree (class “B” felony), two counts of assault in the second degree (class “D” felonies) and one count of count of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree (class “C” violent felony). Jurors rendered their decision that afternoon after nearly three hours of deliberation following a four-day trial.

On July 5, 2021, at approximately 10:58 p.m., the defendant drove to Donovan Drive in the City of Buffalo with co-defendant Dequan Richardson and another unknown individual. Richardson and the unidentified accomplice exited the vehicle and fired numerous shots into a crowd of people who were gathered in the courtyard of the Ferry Grider Homes housing complex to watch fireworks. After the shooting, Robinson drove the gunmen away from the area.

Three adult males were injured in the shooting. A 27-year-old man was hit by gunfire in both legs, which required surgery. A 29-year-old victim was shot in the back. A 28-year-old man was shot in the foot.

The fourth victim, 3-year-old Shaquelle Walker Jr., was hit in the head by a bullet. He was taken to Oishei Children’s Hospital where he died from his injuries on July 9, 2021.

Robinson faces a maximum of 25 years to life in prison when she is sentenced before Erie County Court Judge Susan Eagan on Tuesday, June 6. She continues to be held without bail.

On March 24, 2023, Dequan Richardson, 24, of Cheektowaga pleaded guilty before Judge Eagan to one count of murder in the second degree (class “A” felony), one count of assault in the first degree (class “B” felony), two counts of assault in the second degree (class “D” felonies) and one count of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree (class “C” violent felony). He pleaded guilty to the highest charge in the indictment.

Richardson also faces a maximum of 25 years to life in prison when he is sentenced on Wednesday, May 17. He remains held without bail.

DA Flynn commends the Buffalo Police Department homicide squad for its work in this case. Flynn also commends the Cheektowaga Police Department for its assistance.

The case was prosecuted by Chief John P. Feroleto of the major crimes unit and Assistant District Attorney Rebecca L. Schnirel of the homicide unit of the felony trials bureau.