Four Convicted of Murder in Julio Foolio Case

In a significant development in the case of Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio, a Tampa jury has delivered a guilty verdict. After deliberating for eight hours, all four men on trial have been convicted of first-degree murder in connection with the 2024 shooting that tragically ended the artist’s life.

The Verdict and the Crime

Isaiah Chance, Sean Gathright, Rashad Murphy, and Davion Murphy were found guilty for their roles in the fatal shooting of the 26-year-old artist, whose real name was Charles Jones. The incident occurred nearly two years ago when Julio Foolio was in town to celebrate his birthday.

What started as a birthday celebration at an Airbnb took a dark turn when the rapper had to relocate to a nearby hotel due to overcrowding. Prosecutors successfully argued that the defendants had tracked Jones throughout the night, allegedly using social media, before ambushing him and opening fire on his vehicle as he tried to leave.

Gang Rivalry and Calculated Execution

The trial heavily focused on the long-standing and violent rivalry between Jacksonville gangs. Investigators connected the suspects to the ATK and 1200 factions, suggesting the attack was a retaliatory act against Jones’s 6 Block crew. Evidence presented included surveillance footage and details about modified rifles designed to avoid leaving forensic evidence, painting a picture of a premeditated act.

While the defense teams tried to argue that the evidence, such as cell tower data and music video lyrics, was open to interpretation, the jury ultimately found the prosecution’s case compelling.

Moving to the Penalty Phase

A fifth suspect, Alicia Andrews, who reportedly acted as a lookout, had already pleaded guilty to manslaughter in late 2025. Now, the focus shifts to the penalty phase, scheduled to begin soon. The same jury that delivered the guilty verdicts will now decide the ultimate fate of the four convicted men: life in prison or the death penalty.