Two men have been charged in the fatal, execution-style shooting of a man eating dinner in a popular Los Angeles restaurant late last year.
"The victim, Sidney Barrett Morris, had dedicated his life's work to fostering inclusivity and harmony within our society, making his untimely death all the more devastating," Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón said. "I want to express my sincere condolences to Mr. Morris' family. The brazenness of this shooting is alarming, and my office is fully committed to bringing accountability to those responsible for this heinous crime."
Phillip Pasco Clark of Los Angeles and Santana Jermaine Kelly of Palmdale each face one count of murder and one count of conspiracy to commit a crime. Kelly also faces one count of arson of the property of another.
Morris was at Fixins Soul Kitchen on West Olympic Boulevard on November 28, 2023, when Clark allegedly walked straight up to him and shot him, killing him instantly, according to police.
Morris worked as director of Equity and Diversity at California State University Northridge, and also served as the college's Title IX coordinator, according to CBS. Morris, 43, was the nephew of Motown songwriter Barrett Stronger, who penned classic songs including "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" and "Papa was a Rolling Stone," the university said.
Kelly allegedly helped plan the murder, and provided supplies and support, according to authorities. He also allegedly set fire to the getaway car in an attempt to destroy evidence.
Both men pleaded not guilty during arraignment this week. They're due back in court on April 25.
Kelly and Clark are being held on $3.06 million and $4.06 million bail, respectively.
If convicted as charged, Kelly faces a maximum sentence of 100 years to life. Clark faces a maximum sentence of 85 years to life.
Officials did not immediately disclose a suspected motive.
