Two Men Plead Guilty in Death of Prospective Student Fatally Shot While Visiting Delaware State University

Two Guilty Pleas in Fatal Shooting of Prospective Student at Delaware State University

Two men have recently pleaded guilty to charges related to the tragic death of Camay De Silva, an 18-year-old prospective student who was fatally shot while visiting the campus of Delaware State University. The incident occurred in April 2024 when De Silva, who was staying with a friend on the school’s campus in Dover, was caught in the crossfire of gunfire resulting from an altercation, as reported by CBS News.

Authorities responded to a report of an altercation on the campus simultaneous with gunshots being heard, but upon arrival, there was no evidence of a fight or a crime scene. Soon after, a second call informed the police that a woman had been discovered on the ground. It was then that De Silva was found with a gunshot wound to the head. Despite being rushed to the hospital, she tragically succumbed to her injuries.

Following the incident, two individuals, Destry Jones, 20, and Damien Hinson, 18, were apprehended in connection with the shooting. Dover police stated that Jones and Hinson were engaged in the altercation and fired the shots that led to De Silva’s untimely death. Neither of the culprits were enrolled as students at Delaware State University, and De Silva was confirmed to be an innocent bystander who was not involved in the initial dispute nor was she the intended target.

In September 2025, Jones and Hinson entered guilty pleas for several charges, according to the Delaware Department of Justice. Hinson, now 19, admitted to second-degree murder, conspiracy, and a firearms violation, resulting in a 40-year prison sentence. On the other hand, Jones, now 22, pleaded guilty to manslaughter, conspiracy, and two weapon-related offenses, with his sentencing scheduled for December.

Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings expressed her sentiments, stating, “Camay Mitchell De Silva was, by all accounts, a bright, promising, and beloved young woman. It is disgraceful that she was taken from those who loved her – all because two reckless individuals thought they had the right to resort to lethal violence over a petty dispute.” The tragic incident has left a mark on the community and raised concerns about campus safety and the consequences of senseless violence.

The case serves as a reminder of the impact of such tragic events on families, friends, and communities. It highlights the importance of ensuring the safety of individuals on and around college campuses, as well as the need for swift justice in holding those responsible for such heinous acts accountable. The guilty pleas in the death of Camay De Silva bring a sense of closure to the case while underscoring the significance of upholding the law and seeking justice for victims of violence.

As the legal proceedings continue for the individuals involved, the memory of Camay De Silva lives on through the pursuit of justice and remembrance of her promising future that was unjustly cut short. The plea agreements reached in the case are a step towards accountability and signify progress in seeking justice for the innocent life lost in a senseless act of violence.

In the aftermath of this tragic incident, the community mourns the loss of a young life filled with potential and aspirations. The effects of such violence reverberate throughout society, urging for unity in preventing similar occurrences and advocating for a safer, more compassionate environment for all individuals. The impact of De Silva’s passing serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing and protecting one another in the face of adversity.

The resolved court case stands as a testament to the tireless efforts of law enforcement and the judiciary in seeking justice and closure for the victims and their families. It also underscores the collective responsibility to uphold the values of peace, safety, and justice in our communities. Through continued vigilance and collaboration, it is hoped that such tragedies can be prevented, and justice can be served for all those affected by senseless acts of violence.