We are petitioning for a retrial in the case of Terrence Cumber, who was convicted of felony murder and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony in the tragic 2020 death of Ahmad Popal.

Mr. Cumber was sentenced in April 2025 to life in prison with the possibility of parole plus 5 years for the firearm charge. However, we believe that the verdict and sentence were based on a mischaracterization of the facts and misapplication of the law, and that Mr. Cumber deserves a retrial.

The shooting incident occurred outside a nightclub following an altercation where Mr. Cumber removed himself to avoid an altercation after being assaulted but was followed. Mr. Cumber then acted immediately after witnessing his brother being assaulted. There was no time for deliberation, and the shooting was an immediate reaction to a physical confrontation. While a life was tragically lost, Terrence Cumber did not premeditate the act of shooting, and the circumstances surrounding the shooting suggest voluntary manslaughter or even self-defense as more appropriate charges, rather than felony murder.

The jury acquitted Mr. Cumber of malice murder, signaling that they did not believe there was intent to kill. Despite this, he was convicted of felony murder, which led to a life sentence. This conviction does not align with the immediate nature of the shooting or the lack of premeditation involved.

We believe that the following factors warrant a retrial:

The immediate and reactionary nature of the shooting was not fully weighed in the trial.
Jury instructions may not have sufficiently presented lesser charges such as voluntary manslaughter.

The context of self-defense or defense of a third party was not adequately considered.

The severity of the sentence (life in prison) does not match the circumstances of the case, given the lack of intent to kill.

This petition is not intended to minimize the loss of life, but to ensure that the justice system considers all relevant facts, weighs the circumstances fairly, and upholds principles of fairness and proportionality. We respectfully urge that a retrial be granted to allow the case to be heard with full attention to the mitigating factors.

Please consider sharing this petition with others who might be willing to support. Every signature helps ensure that Terrence gets a fair chance for justice.

This case represents more than just one man’s fight for justice; it is a call for fairness, accuracy, and compassion in our legal system. By signing this petition, you are standing with Terrence Cumber and advocating for a retrial that fully considers the circumstances of his case. We believe that everyone deserves a fair trial, and that includes Terrence Cumber.

A retrial is not just about righting a wrong; it is about ensuring that our justice system reflects the principles of equity and due process. Together, we can help make sure that justice is truly served.

Thank you for supporting this cause. Your signature can make a difference in securing a fair outcome. If this case is not reexamined, it sets a dangerous precedent that could threaten everyone’s fundamental right to self-defense in critical moments