SAN ANTONIO, Texas (AP) — The shocking murder of aspiring rapper Martell Derouen left a community in disbelief as the details of the crime unfolded in court. The perpetrator, Sasha Skare, was found guilty and sentenced to 55 years in prison after a tumultuous trial that brought forth emotional testimonies and gripping evidence of the events that led to Derouen’s death.

Derouen’s body was discovered in his apartment at The Towers complex off La Cantera Parkway on January 26, 2021, after concerned family members requested a welfare check. Police found a suspicious hole near the peephole, and upon entering, they found Derouen’s lifeless body in a pool of blood, setting off an intense investigation into his tragic death.

A crucial piece of evidence came in the form of a 911 call made days before Derouen’s body was found, in which a woman’s voice could be heard. The woman was later identified as Skare, who was also captured on a doorbell camera video walking down the hallway with a gun in her hand. Skare was soon apprehended and booked at the Bexar County jail, where she remained until her trial commenced more than two years later.

During the trial, Derouen’s wife, Joia, gave a heart-wrenching testimony about her relationship with Derouen and the events leading up to his death. She revealed that she had met Skare a few times in 2016 and recounted the devastating moment when she discovered her husband’s lifeless body in their apartment.

As the trial unfolded, witnesses recounted hearing an argument between Skare and Derouen on the night of the murder, and evidence from the crime scene suggested a violent struggle had taken place. Skare, in her own testimony, described a violent altercation with Derouen that led to her using the gun as a means of escape.

Following Skare’s testimony, the jury deliberated and returned with a guilty verdict, ultimately sentencing her to 55 years in prison. Derouen’s family members expressed relief and satisfaction with the outcome, with his sister Kami delivering a powerful impact statement during the sentencing.

The harrowing case serves as a reminder of the tragic consequences of domestic violence and the impact it has on families and communities. As Skare begins her prison sentence, Derouen’s loved ones and the community continue to grapple with the loss of a talented artist and beloved member of the community.