BALTIMORE — A 43-year-old man pleaded guilty Monday to using a firearm in connection with a violent crime that led to the death of Latrina Ashburne in 2016. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, Matthew Hightower attempted to thwart a federal witness from testifying against him in two high-profile cases, including health care fraud and a prior murder accusation.
Hightower’s scheme targeted Ashburne, who he believed resembled the neighbor he actually wanted to eliminate, a federal witness. Prosecutors revealed that while incarcerated, Hightower orchestrated the plot through letters and phone calls. Tragically, Ashburne was fatally shot outside her home on May 27, 2016, as she was approaching her car.
Davon Carter, the shooter, along with his accomplice Clifton Mosley, had previously been convicted for their respective roles in the crime. As Hightower faces the possibility of life imprisonment, his plea agreement suggests a potential sentence of 60 years, to be served consecutively with his existing term for the murder of David Wutoh.
The impact of Ashburne’s death rippled through the Baltimore community, prompting loved ones to establish a GoFundMe campaign in her memory. Organizers expressed their grief, describing her as a pillar of light in the community, deeply committed to her faith and service. “Our dear sister Latrina’s untimely death left family, friends, co-workers, students, and church members in a state of shock,” the campaign’s organizers remarked, highlighting her dedication to spreading the gospel, aiding the homeless, and uplifting the church.
The loss of Ashburne resonated especially with those who knew her as a devoted advocate for youth, underscoring a life tragically cut short. As the community remembers her mission, family members are determined to uphold her legacy.
In light of Hightower’s guilty plea, authorities continue to work diligently to address and prevent similar acts of violence, reaffirming their commitment to community safety and the pursuit of justice. The case illustrates the grave consequences tied to violent crimes and the lengths to which some individuals will go to obstruct justice.
These developments reflect on a broader discussion about the impact of organized crime and witness intimidation, ensuring that communities remain vigilant in the face of such challenges.