Beckley, West Virginia – A Raleigh County man has been sentenced in connection with a deadly shooting that occurred in December, bringing a measure of closure to the victim’s family. Prosecutors say the conviction marks the end of a difficult legal process following the death of a young man in the early morning hours on a residential street.
Incident Overview
Marquest Fortune has been sentenced for second-degree murder in the killing of 20-year-old Traysouan Robertson, according to Raleigh County prosecutors. Robertson died on December 10, shortly before Fortune was taken into custody in connection with the shooting.
Authorities say the case stems from a violent incident that unfolded on Clyde Street in Beckley, shaking the local community and leaving a family grieving the sudden loss of a loved one.
Timeline of Events
The shooting occurred during the early morning hours in December, prompting an immediate response from law enforcement. Traysouan Robertson, age 20, was critically injured and later pronounced dead on December 10.
Marquest Fortune was arrested shortly after Robertson’s death. Investigators gathered evidence and worked with witnesses as the case moved through the court system, ultimately resulting in a second-degree murder conviction.
Details From Prosecutors
Officials from the Raleigh County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office emphasized the importance of supporting the victim’s family throughout the legal proceedings. Morgan Spolarich, an assistant prosecutor, said the case was handled with close communication and sensitivity.
“We worked closely with the victim’s family throughout this process,” Spolarich said. “This is not an easy process for any family suffering the loss of a loved one, and it is my hope that this conviction can bring some degree of comfort to them.”
Prosecutors confirmed that the sentencing represents a significant step toward accountability in the case.
Key Facts in the Case
- Defendant: Marquest Fortune
- Victim: Traysouan Robertson, 20 years old
- Charge: Second-degree murder
- Date of death: December 10
- Location: Clyde Street, Beckley, West Virginia
- Investigating agency: Beckley Police Department
Law Enforcement Investigation
The case was investigated by officers with the Beckley Police Department, who responded to the scene and led the initial inquiry. Detectives worked to reconstruct the events leading up to the shooting, collect physical evidence, and interview individuals connected to the incident.
Their findings were later presented to prosecutors, forming the basis of the murder charge against Fortune.
Impact on the Community
Violent crimes involving young victims often leave lasting effects on families and neighborhoods. Residents in the Clyde Street area expressed concern in the aftermath of the shooting, while local leaders reiterated calls for cooperation with law enforcement to prevent future violence.
According to data shared by the West Virginia Judiciary, homicide cases are among the most complex and emotionally taxing proceedings handled by county courts, often taking months or years to resolve.
Public Safety and Awareness
Officials continue to encourage residents to report suspicious activity and seek nonviolent resolutions to disputes whenever possible. Prosecutors note that early intervention, community support programs, and cooperation with law enforcement can play a role in reducing violent incidents.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Marquest Fortune closes a painful chapter in the death of Traysouan Robertson, a life lost far too early. While no legal outcome can fully heal the loss felt by loved ones, prosecutors hope the conviction provides a sense of justice and accountability.
Community members are reminded that awareness, communication, and support for victims’ families remain essential in the wake of violent crime. Share your experiences in the comments below.
