FRESNO, CA – A court hearing in Fresno took an unexpected turn when tensions flared during proceedings against three men accused of murder. The defendants, Makhy Joyce, Malik Jordan, and Michael Pitts, have all entered not guilty pleas in connection with the shooting death of Markazsa Perry last year.
Prosecutors presented their case on Thursday, alleging that the three men fired over 40 rounds, marking the city’s 30th homicide of 2024. Authorities suspect the incident may be linked to gang activity, with multiple individuals reportedly present inside the home during the shooting.
A key witness, now under protection, testified at length, claiming they were with the defendants and saw at least two of them armed with handguns. The defense, however, challenged the witness’s credibility, highlighting inconsistencies in their story and a false identification of one defendant.
To support their case, prosecutors introduced a brief video clip purportedly showing the defendants fleeing the scene near East Samson and South Lee Avenues. The footage elicited emotional reactions from the gallery, with some family members moved to tears.
The courtroom drama extended beyond testimony when a heated exchange erupted in the hallway, involving several family members. The altercation escalated into a physical confrontation, prompting sheriff’s deputies to intervene and detain several individuals, causing a 30-minute delay in the proceedings.
As the case continues, prosecutors face the task of persuading the judge that sufficient evidence exists to proceed to trial. The hearing is scheduled to resume on Friday.