Man Pleads Guilty to Murder of Philadelphia Store Owner in Christmas Eve Shooting
Maurice Green sentenced to 24-40 years in prison for the third-degree murder of Marie Buck
In a tragic case that has haunted the community for nearly seven years, Maurice Green has pleaded guilty to third-degree murder in the shooting death of Marie Buck, an 81-year-old corner store owner in south Philadelphia. Green, 38, was sentenced to serve from 24 to 40 years in state prison on the murder charge and a related gun offense. The incident, which occurred on Christmas Eve in 2016, shocked the city and left the victim’s family and community devastated.
A Senseless Act of Violence
Marie Buck’s murder was a senseless act of violence that left the community in shock and disbelief. Common Pleas Judge Glenn Bronson expressed his disbelief at the motive behind the shooting, stating, “To shoot an unarmed, helpless 81-year-old woman … over a fight over a necklace is incomprehensible.” The tragedy highlights the devastating impact of gun violence and the need for stricter gun control measures.
A Case of Mistaken Identity
According to prosecutor Joanne Pescatore, Green intended to kill another person he believed had stolen his $5,500 gold chain. However, the intended target was not present in the store on the morning of the incident. This case of mistaken identity resulted in the tragic death of Marie Buck, who was simply going about her daily routine at her corner store.
Remorse and Apology
During the court proceedings, Green expressed remorse and apologized to Buck’s family. He spoke of his inability to face the family and his desire to atone for his actions. Green, who grew up near Marie’s Grocery and had frequented the store, expressed the haunting presence of Buck in his thoughts. His heartfelt apology, while offering little consolation to the grieving family, demonstrated a glimmer of remorse for the heinous crime committed.
A Retrial and Overturned Verdict
Green’s conviction was the result of a retrial in 2019 after the first trial ended in a hung jury. He was initially sentenced to life without parole but, in 2021, an appeals court overturned the verdict. The court ruled that the trial judge should not have allowed prosecutors to present evidence of a previous crime for which Green was never arrested or convicted. The overturned verdict added another layer of complexity to an already emotionally charged case.
A Sad Commentary on Drugs and the Impact on Families
Prosecutor Joanne Pescatore described the case as “a sad commentary on drugs in this city.” The tragic events that unfolded on that fateful Christmas Eve highlight the devastating impact of drug-related violence on families and communities. The Buck family, while relieved that the legal proceedings have come to an end, expressed their deep grief and longing for Marie. They hope to find solace and closure after enduring the pain of multiple trials.
Conclusion:
The guilty plea and sentencing of Maurice Green bring a measure of justice to the family and community affected by Marie Buck’s tragic murder. However, the case serves as a stark reminder of the senseless violence that plagues our society and the need for comprehensive gun control measures. As the Buck family continues to mourn their loss, they hope that their story will shed light on the devastating consequences of drug-related violence and inspire change in their community.