Two men convicted in the death of Albany resident Shanita Thomas
Tommy Chen is a veteran sports journalist based in Albany, boasting 12 years of experience covering everything from high school to professional sports. A graduate of SUNY Cortland, he has previously worked for the Troy Record and has a knack for breaking down plays and strategies in a way that resonates with casual fans and diehard enthusiasts alike.
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ALBANY, N.Y. (WNYT)- Raa Jiem Coleman and Marcell Perry have been convicted after trial for their roles in the January 2021, shooting death of Shanita Thomas and the serious wounding of another woman. Coleman was convicted of second-degree murder, second-degree attempted murder, and criminal possession of a weapon. Perry was convicted of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. Thomas was killed on January 30, 2021, inside of 211 State Street, which had been open for a private party. During the party, Coleman arrived uninvited to confront Perry. Coleman drew a gun minutes after arriving and began to shoot at Perry, who returned fire, according to the Schenectady District Attorney s Office. At least 29 shots were fired during the fight. During the gunfire, Thomas was struck and killed. Two other women were hit, one receiving serious injuries. Coleman and Perry were also struck during the exchange. Both men were tracked to Albany Medical Center. Coleman faces a p