Charging documents reveal circumstances surrounding murder of Nuru Frenche

By D.C. Witness Staff - January 25, 2017
Homicides | Suspects |

Anthony Blackmone and Nathaniel Taylor were indicted on nine charges Wednesday stemming from a botched robbery that quickly escalated into murder.

The victim, 23-year-old Nuru Frenche, was found by police suffering from gunshot wounds that ultimately lead to his death back in April 2016.

According to the warrant for Blackmone’s arrest, and details of the indictment,  it appears that Frenche was not the intended target, but instead was accompanying the person who Taylor and Blackmone were targeting.

According to the charging documents, Blackmone and Taylor, among others who are currently unnamed, planned to rob another male. Through text messages and phone calls made through phones own by other people, Blackmone and Taylor lured the man and Frenche to meet at 4900 block of Just Street NE under the guise of offering videographer services.

At the time of the meet, Frenche and his friend arrived, and after a short conversation Blackmone and Taylor pulled out guns and demanded, “Give that shit up.” It’s unclear what the duo were attempting to steal.

Blackmone and Taylor released fire. Frenche struggled to get away from Taylor and was shot. Documents do not state who shot Frenche.

After the shooting, Blackmone and Taylor returned the phone they had been using to a nearby house and then fled the scene.

Blackmone and Taylor were indicted for first-degree murder, conspiracy, two counts of attempt to commit robbery while armed, assault with intent to kill while armed and four counts of possession of a firearm during crime of violence or dangerous offense.

Blackmone has pleaded not guilty to all charges and is expected in court March 28 for a status update. Taylor is expected in court to be arraigned on the charges Feb. 10.

This story has been updated.