BRONX, NY — A 46-year-old ex-convict, Lavar Davis, has been charged with the fatal shooting of Trevor Hughes, a 49-year-old father of four after a dispute over a parking spot turned deadly.

The tragic incident, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, February 9, has left the local community in shock and raised concerns about the reintegration of individuals with violent criminal records.

Background of the Incident

According to police reports, Hughes returned to his home on Fowler Avenue in the Bronx and found a car blocking his designated parking space. The vehicle belonged to Davis, who was accompanied by a female companion. A verbal altercation ensued between Hughes and Davis, quickly escalating into a physical confrontation. Witnesses reported hearing raised voices before gunshots rang out.

Prosecutors say that during the fight, Davis allegedly pulled out a firearm and shot Hughes multiple times. Hughes’ girlfriend, who was present at the scene, attempted to intervene but was reportedly beaten by Davis. By the time emergency services arrived, Hughes was pronounced dead at the scene. His girlfriend was taken to a nearby hospital with serious injuries but is expected to recover.

Davis’ Criminal Past

Court documents reveal that Davis has a long history of violent crime. Nearly three decades ago, in 1997, he was convicted of second-degree murder for the fatal shooting of 22-year-old Floyd Berkley in Schenectady, New York. At just 18 years old, Davis shot Berkley following an altercation and then attempted to flee town using $300 provided by a friend. After being apprehended, he pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 24 years in state prison.

Davis was released on parole in March 2021 after serving nearly a quarter of a century behind bars. During his sentence, he also received a concurrent 10- to 20-year term for a separate first-degree assault conviction stemming from the shooting of 18-year-old Franklin Hemingway in Brooklyn.

Legal Proceedings and Charges

Following his arrest for the Bronx shooting, Davis was arraigned in court on Monday, February 10. Bronx Assistant District Attorney Lawrence Rozenblum emphasized Davis’ history of violent offenses, arguing that he poses a significant threat to public safety. Prosecutors have charged Davis with second-degree murder, assault, and criminal possession of a firearm.

Davis’ defense attorney has not commented on the charges, but legal experts suggest that given his prior convictions, he could face life in prison without parole if convicted.

Community Reactions and Concerns

The tragic killing of Trevor Hughes has sparked outrage in the Bronx community, with residents questioning how someone with Davis’ violent past was allowed back on the streets. Local activists have called for stricter parole guidelines and more comprehensive rehabilitation programs to prevent repeat offenders from reoffending.

“We need to do a better job ensuring that individuals who serve time for violent crimes are truly rehabilitated before being released,” said community leader Marcus Reynolds. “This was a preventable tragedy.”

Friends and family of Hughes described him as a hardworking man and a devoted father. His eldest son, speaking at a candlelight vigil, expressed heartbreak over his father’s death. “He didn’t deserve this. He was just trying to park his car and go home to his family.”

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities continue to investigate the case, including reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses. The Bronx District Attorney’s Office has assured the public that justice will be served.

As the legal proceedings unfold, Hughes’ family and the community remain focused on seeking accountability and pushing for reforms to prevent such incidents in the future.