Full Breakdown
Sacramento K Street Mass Shooting Trial Ends in Mistrial
7/22/2026, 6:06:02 AM
Mistrial Declared in High-Profile Case
On July 21, 2026, Sacramento Superior Court Judge Michael Bowman announced a mistrial after the 12-member jury remained deadlocked on the murder and manslaughter counts against Dandrae Martin, 31, and Mtula Payton, 32. Both men had been convicted of unlawful firearm possession. A decision on whether prosecutors will retry the murder charges is expected in October.
Background & Context
The trial stemmed from the April 3, 2022 shooting at 10th and K streets, the deadliest mass shooting in Sacramento’s history. Six people were killed—three women (Johntaya Alexander, 21; Melinda Davis, 57; Yamile Martinez-Andrade, 21) and three men (Sergio Harris, 38; Joshua Hoye-Lucchesi, 32; DeVazia Turner, 29). Prosecutors called it a gang-related gunfight; the defense claimed self-defense after an unexpected burst of fire.
Timeline
- April 3, 2022 – Shooting occurs, killing six and wounding dozens.
- June 24, 2026 – Closing arguments heard; defense attorneys Linda Parisi and Reid Kingsbury address the jury.
- July 21, 2026 – Judge Bowman declares a mistrial after the jury reports a deadlock on the remaining charges.
Data & Statistics
- Defendants: Dandrae Martin and Mtula Payton.
- Charges: Initially three counts of first-degree murder (later withdrawn), plus second-degree murder, voluntary manslaughter, and two felony firearm-possession counts.
- Potential Sentences: Up to 15 years to life for each murder count.
- Victims: Six fatalities; reports list either 12 or 13 injured persons.
Official Statements & Responses
The district attorney’s office declined further comment while the case remains pending.
Criticism & Opposition
Families of the victims and local officials expressed disappointment. John Alexander, father of victim Johntaya Alexander, said the outcome “denied” his family justice. City Councilmember Phil Pluckebaum described the mistrial as “deeply painful” and urged transparency.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the number of non-fatal injuries: the New York Times and CBS News report 13 wounded, while the Sacramento Bee cites 12. No definitive count has been verified.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are really grateful at how hard the jury worked,” — Linda Parisi, defense attorney
- “I did not get justice today,” — Johntaya Alexander, victim’s sister
What’s Next
The district attorney’s office will announce in October whether a retrial will proceed, in which the defendants would again face the murder and weapons charges.
