Wilson Wesley Chavis, a 50-year-old funeral director from Maryland, was convicted of second-degree murder on February 13, 2025. The owner of Compassion and Serenity Funeral Home in Suitland, Maryland, Chavis was found guilty of fatally shooting a pallbearer at a child’s burial service, turning a solemn occasion into a violent episode.
The trial painted a grim picture of a series of tragic events that started with the shooting of a 10-year-old girl, Arianna Davis, on Mother’s Day 2023. Arianna was a passenger in a family car in Northeast Washington, D.C. when she was hit by a stray bullet from a nearby gunfight. An investigation by the Metropolitan Police Department revealed that the firearms used in the incident were linked to two unsolved murders and over 24 other shootings in 2022.
On June 6, 2023, less than a month after Arianna’s death, her burial service was held at Washington National Cemetery in Suitland. Chavis, who had been contracted for $20,000 to manage the funeral arrangements, arrived at the cemetery armed. Testimonies in court revealed that a longstanding business feud with another funeral home led to a confrontation when Chavis encountered representatives from the competitor amongst the mourners.
The confrontation escalated quickly. Chavis pushed the pastor officiating at the graveside rites, which led to objections from the funeral attendees. Instead of retreating, Chavis drew a handgun and started shooting. Ronald Steven Banks, a 30-year-old pallbearer, was shot in the back, while a 39-year-old woman suffered a minor wound. Banks was rushed to a hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Chavis fled the crime scene, leaving behind a tumultuous environment that deprived Arianna’s family of a proper farewell. He was later captured during a routine traffic stop. Chavis claimed self-defense during the trial, but the prosecutors successfully proved that his actions were uncalled for.
State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy expressed the horror of the situation, stating, “When acts of violence occur at places that should be sacred like funeral homes and cemeteries, it’s horrific. With this guilty verdict, Mr. Chavis will be held accountable for his reckless, callous actions.” Assistant State’s Attorney William Porter detailed the emotional toll on Arianna’s family, emphasizing that Arianna’s mother did not witness her daughter’s burial due to the ensuing chaos.
As Chavis awaited trial, the investigation into Arianna’s death progressed. On September 18, 2023, 19-year-old Koran Gregory was arrested and charged with first-degree murder while armed. Subsequent arrests were made based on community tips and video evidence, leading to the arrests of 19-year-old Dallas McKinney and 24-year-old Charles Edward Owens.
Chavis was found guilty of second-degree murder, use of a firearm in a violent crime, and reckless endangerment. He was acquitted of more serious charges, including attempted murder, attempted manslaughter, and assault. Scheduled for sentencing on July 11, 2025, Chavis could face up to 65 years imprisonment.
In the wake of the case, officials of Prince George’s County are reassessing security protocols for funeral services, especially those involving victims of firearm violence. The verdict not only addresses the murder of Ronald Banks but also serves as a reminder of the sanctity of funeral services, particularly those for children taken prematurely.
