Alabama man sentenced in drive-by shooting that killed sleeping 9-year-old girl

A Mobile man has been handed a pair of life sentences without the possibility of parole for his role in the tragic 2023 killing of 9-year-old Cailee Knight. A judge finalized the sentencing for Darius Lucky Jr. on Wednesday, according to the Mobile County District Attorney’s Office.

A Conviction for Senseless Violence

Lucky was previously found guilty by a jury on charges of capital murder for shooting into an occupied dwelling and capital murder of a victim under 14 years old. Under Alabama law, these convictions carry a mandatory sentence of life without the possibility of parole.

"Cailee Knight should still be here today," said Mobile County District Attorney Keith Blackwood. "She should have had the chance to grow up, chase her dreams, and live the life that was stolen from her by Darius Lucky’s senseless act of violence."

The Tragic Incident

The shooting took place on Dec. 5, 2023, inside a residence on Rhett Drive. Cailee was sleeping on a couch when the drive-by shooting occurred, resulting in her death. Blackwood emphasized that his office remains dedicated to seeking justice and holding every individual involved in the tragedy accountable.

Ongoing Legal Proceedings

Lucky is the first of five defendants to face trial for the murder of Cailee Knight. While two other defendants, Amia Bantz and Ricki Thier, reached deals with prosecutors to serve 20-year sentences on lesser charges—identifying Lucky as the shooter—the legal process continues for the others involved. Arieal Curry and Tyrone Williams are still awaiting trial on capital murder charges, as reported by 205focus.com.