Mother of murder victim in YSL trial speaks out after acquittal

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – The family of a murder victim in the YSL trial is speaking out after the remaining defendants in the case received their verdicts Tuesday.

Deamonte Kendrick and Shannon Stillwell were found not guilty in connection with the 2015 shooting death of Donovan Thomas Jr.

Thomas’ mother, Shawonna Edmond, was at the courthouse when the verdicts were announced.

“I didn’t question God, I just said ‘Wow,'” Edmond said. “Unfortunately it didn’t work out in our favor, but we’re doing well as a family. It’s time for me to pick up the pieces.”

Thomas, 26, was shot in a suspected gang incident in the Castleberry Hill neighborhood. The murder became a major focus of the YSL trial, which was watched internationally due to its celebrity ties, with rapper Young Thug at the center.

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“They didn’t know Donovan in 2015. They just knew him from the time of this trial and the people who were involved,” Edmond said of those who followed the trial.

Edmond still wants justice for his son and is coming forward to share his story. Thomas, who was also known as Peanut, was a father of two and had many things going for him, including a clothing line, according to his mother.

“He was so full of life … walking into a room and lighting up the room,” Edmond said. “I could write a book about him. My gentle giant… my second born… 26 wonderful years that I thank God for and would do again any time.”

Edmond told Atlanta News First she believes prosecutors presented a good case and that she doesn’t blame them for the outcome of the trial.

“I’m sad, but I’m also happy. I also have tears of joy because I know the child I raised and the love he gave me ten years later…nine years later,” she said.

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