Woman Arrested and Charged with Murder After Brutal Attack on Man Who Sold Her Fake Jewelry, Leading to His Death in Houston
HOUSTON — A woman accused of killing a 69-year-old man over a fraudulent jewelry sale was taken into custody on Thursday, according to the Houston Police Department. Latrecia Nicole Washington, 50, is now facing murder charges in connection with the death of Alton Joseph Martin, who died after a brutal assault last October.
The case has shocked the Houston community, as it began with a seemingly simple transaction and escalated into violence that ultimately led to a man’s death.
The Fatal Confrontation
In October 2024, Alton Joseph Martin received jewelry for his birthday. In need of money, Martin and his fiancée decided to sell the pieces. The couple met Washington in a parking lot outside a local club, where they sold her the jewelry. Washington, however, later discovered that the items were counterfeit when she attempted to pawn them.
According to Washington’s statements to authorities, she was upset upon realizing the jewelry was fake, and that’s when the situation began to spiral out of control. She confronted Martin and his fiancée, and the confrontation soon turned violent.
The Events Leading Up to the Murder
After the sale, Martin and his fiancée went to a nearby dollar store on Gregg Street. Surveillance footage and witness statements reveal that Washington followed them into the parking lot in her vehicle, allegedly blocking them in. She then confronted Martin and chased him into the store, reportedly threatening him with a knife.
The violence escalated as Martin’s fiancée called 911 for help. Court documents show that Washington, along with 38-year-old Marshall Paul Garrett, beat Martin with either the handle of a knife or a metal pipe. They assaulted him violently, causing blunt-force trauma to his head. Martin was rushed to the hospital and placed in critical condition, but he succumbed to his injuries approximately 12 days later.
Arrest and Charges
Washington was arrested on Thursday after months of investigation. Authorities had been piecing together witness testimonies, video evidence, and forensics since the attack. The arrest marks a significant development in the case that left the community reeling from the brutality of the crime.
Washington faces a charge of murder in connection with Martin’s death, while Garrett, who is also implicated in the attack, is facing charges of assault and murder. Authorities are continuing to search for Garrett, who is still at large.
The Impact on the Community
The death of Alton Joseph Martin has shaken both his family and the Houston community. Martin’s fiancée, who was present during the confrontation, has been left to deal with the trauma of witnessing such a violent and senseless act. Friends and family of Martin remember him as a kind and peaceful man who did not deserve such a tragic end.
“This was a man who just wanted to sell some jewelry to make a little extra money. He didn’t deserve what happened to him,” said a family member. “We’re just looking for justice now.”
Legal Repercussions and Broader Implications
Legal experts have pointed to this case as an example of the extreme dangers that can arise from even seemingly harmless transactions, particularly those involving counterfeit goods. While selling fake jewelry may seem like a minor crime in the moment, the violent outcome here highlights the severe consequences that can result from such fraudulent acts.
Consumer protection advocates are also using this case to raise awareness about the importance of verifying the authenticity of products, especially high-value items like jewelry. The case also underscores the risks associated with quick, informal transactions, particularly when emotions and money are involved.
Moving Forward
As Latrecia Washington faces charges, the investigation is far from over. Houston authorities are continuing their search for Marshall Paul Garrett, the alleged accomplice, and are urging anyone with information on his whereabouts to come forward. Washington’s arrest has brought a sense of closure to some, but there is still much to be done in the pursuit of justice for Alton Martin.
For now, Martin’s family and loved ones are left grappling with the loss of a man who never had the chance to live out his final years in peace. While they await legal proceedings, they continue to honor his memory, hoping that the justice system will hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
Conclusion
This tragic case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can arise from fraudulent schemes, even those that seem harmless on the surface. As the investigation continues and legal proceedings unfold, the Houston community is left questioning the true cost of deception and violence. The murder of Alton Martin, once a simple man looking to make a living, has now become a cautionary tale of the deadly consequences that can result from greed, anger, and betrayal.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has additional information to contact the Houston Police Department as they work toward bringing further clarity and justice to this disturbing case.