UPDATE: A Brookhaven man has been sentenced to 18 to 36 years in prison after pleading guilty to the fatal shooting of a 37-year-old Norristown resident. Marquan “Trey” Manere Banks, 26, admitted to the deadly attack that occurred on January 11, 2025, just two weeks before his trial was set to begin.
The plea was entered in Montgomery County Court, where Banks faced a charge of third-degree murder for shooting Jermaine Pierce in the face during an altercation on the 500 block of Noble Street. This admission of guilt spared him the risk of facing a more severe first-degree murder charge, which carries a life sentence.
In a courtroom filled with grieving family members of Pierce, Banks expressed remorse, stating, “I’m sorry,” as he faced the emotional impact of his actions. Judge Wendy G. Rothstein accepted the plea agreement, leading to immediate sentencing.
The fatal incident unfolded around 7:34 p.m. when Norristown police responded to reports of a shooting and found Pierce’s lifeless body. An autopsy confirmed he suffered a single gunshot wound to the face, ruling the death a homicide. Detectives recovered multiple 9mm shell casings at the scene, indicating the violent nature of the confrontation.
Authorities reported that surveillance footage captured the moments leading up to the shooting. It showed Banks and two accomplices walking toward Pierce and Isaiah Robert Bell, another individual involved in the incident. In a shocking twist, as Banks greeted Bell, he suddenly pulled out a firearm and shot Pierce. Bell, in a frantic response, allegedly fired back at Banks and his companions.
Isaiah Robert Bell, 29, had previously pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of recklessly endangering another person, receiving a sentence of 197 days to 23 months in county jail. Additional charges against him were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.
Banks’ criminal history dates back to 2013, with prior convictions including drug and firearm offenses, making his possession of a firearm illegal at the time of the shooting.
This tragic incident has left the community of Norristown grappling with the loss of a life and the impact of gun violence. As the legal proceedings conclude for Banks, authorities remind the public of the grave consequences associated with such actions.
As this case develops, community members are urged to remain vigilant and engage in discussions about violence prevention and community safety.