Two individuals are facing charges related to the fatal shooting of a 43-year-old man at Fixins Soul Kitchen, a popular restaurant in the L.A. Live entertainment complex near the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. The incident took place on the night of November 28, 2023. The charges were made public by the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office on March 28, 2024.
The accused, Phillip Pasco Clark, 33, and Santana Jermaine Kelly, 50, are charged with murder and conspiracy to commit a crime. The shooting resulted in the death of Sidney Barrett Morris, who was dining alone at the restaurant.
Prosecutors allege that Clark walked into the restaurant, shot Morris at close range, and injured a woman before escaping in a vehicle driven by another person.
Raul Jovel, Captain of the Los Angeles Police Department, expressed his shock at the incident, which took place in a location known for its family-friendly atmosphere. District Attorney George Gascón also expressed his sorrow over the loss of Morris, a man known for his dedication to promoting inclusivity and harmony in his community.
Morris’s commitment to societal change was evident in his role as the Title IX coordinator and director of equity and diversity at California State University, Northridge. His work had a significant impact on his community. Although he resigned from his position a few months prior to his death, the reasons were not disclosed to the public.
In 2019, the university announced Morris’s hiring, noting his relation to Barrett Strong, a renowned Motown composer responsible for hit songs like “I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” “War,” and “Papa Was a Rolling Stone.” At the time of his death, Morris was pursuing law studies at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
The investigation into Morris’s murder revealed a premeditated plan. Kelly is accused of aiding in the planning of the shooting, offering logistical support, and attempting to eliminate evidence by burning the escape vehicle the following day. The deliberate nature of the crime and the attempt to destroy evidence underscore the audacity of the act.
Both Clark and Kelly have entered not-guilty pleas. Clark’s bail is set at $4.06 million, while Kelly’s is $3.06 million. If found guilty, Kelly could face a sentence of 100 years to life, while Clark could face up to 85 years to life.
As the court proceedings continue, both defendants are scheduled to appear in court again on April 25. Meanwhile, the community mourns the loss of Morris, a man who dedicated his life to promoting unity and bridging societal divides. His absence is deeply felt, not only by those who knew him personally, but by all who value peace and justice.