Wyoming Community Watches Closely as Man Testifies in Wife’s Murder Trial After Divorce Filing
GRAND RAPIDS, MI — Emotions ran high in the courtroom on Wednesday, May 21, as 43-year-old Marcus Durayalle Lofton took the stand in his ongoing murder trial at the Kent County Courthouse.
Lofton is accused of fatally shooting his wife, 38-year-old Alicia Lofton, nearly two years ago—just one day after she served him with divorce papers. The tragic incident occurred on the morning of August 17, 2023, at their former home on Union Avenue SE. Alicia was found dead beside the house when officers arrived.
The case has gained attention beyond Michigan, including in parts of Wyoming, where domestic violence prevention advocates are highlighting the story as a sobering reminder of the dangers some face when attempting to leave abusive relationships.
Facing charges of open murder and felony firearm possession, Lofton testified that the shooting happened during a heated argument. “It just happened so fast,” he repeated multiple times under questioning by Assistant Prosecutor Angela Curtis.
According to prosecutors, the couple had a turbulent six-month marriage marked by frequent arguments. On the day of the shooting, Lofton allegedly grabbed Alicia’s pistol from a drawer during a confrontation and tried to hit her with it—but the gun discharged.
Alicia then fled to a bedroom and locked the door. Prosecutors say Lofton kicked the door in while Alicia attempted to escape through a window. That’s when he allegedly fired the fatal shot.
After three days of testimony, jurors began deliberations Wednesday afternoon to determine Lofton’s fate.
This case continues to resonate in communities across the country, including Wyoming, where the intersection of divorce, domestic violence, and firearms remains a pressing concern.
