Family, Friends Take Solace in Capture of DeSha-Overcash's Killers

Friends and loved ones of Justin DeSha-Overcash, a University of Maryland student who was shot to death in his 38th Avenue home in January, expressed relief that arrests have been made, but continue to question why the murder happened at all.

Police announced the arrest of Stephan Weaver, 22, and Deandre Ricardo Williams, 23, on Thursday. Both suspects have been charged with first degree murder.

"We're very pleased," said Karen DeSha, the victim's mother. "The PG County Police and detectives have been wonderful. They kept us in the loop so we constantly knew what was going on."

DeSha said that while she is glad they're off the streets, she isn't angry at the two men who killed her son.

"I will forgive them, because I can’t carry hate in my heart ... we didn’t use the word 'hate' in our household," she said. "I’m very sorry that not only did my son lose his life, but basically they’ve lost theirs too. These are young people who could have had a future."

Kara Sarvey, a longtime friend and former girlfriend of DeSha-Overcash, said news of the arrest is bittersweet. Hearing the details is going to be difficult, she said.

In the end, Sarvey said she just wants to know why the murder happened. The Facebook page of Weaver, which remains online, indicates that he studied Business Economics in college and is in a relationship.

"Why would you want to throw all that away?" she asked.

Other friends took to the Facebook page of DeSha-Overcash to share their feelings about the arrests. Notes like "they got em ma dude" and "beyond elated about the news for you kid!" topped the long stream of comments that have been posted since DeSha-Overcash's death.

Charging documents say that Williams entered the house in search of money and drugs. Though marijuana and related paraphernalia were found in the house, family and friends of DeSha-Overcash vehemently deny that he was a dealer.

Karen DeSha, who has been holding rallies outside of the Prince George's County Police Department in Upper Marlboro, said she plans to continue to fight to make the area safer. Her next rally will be held on April 16, in conjunction with the department's annual ceremony honoring victims of crime.