In a somber courtroom in Arlington, Alimamy Fornah was sentenced to life in prison for the brutal murder of Shontae Crawford, which took place on July 19, 2023. The sentencing came after a long hearing that included emotional victim impact testimony from Shontae’s sister, highlighting the vibrant life Shontae led before it was violently cut short.
Shontae’s final moments were marked by terror as she tried to escape from her attacker, suffering deep wounds to her neck before collapsing in the hallway of her apartment building. After nearly a year of anguish for her loved ones, a jury found Fornah guilty of the murder on June 13, 2024.
During the hearing, the focus shifted to remembering Shontae’s spirit, emphasizing the brightness she brought to those around her. Despite enduring years of abuse from Fornah, Shontae was described as a loving sister, mother, and friend who cherished small, joyful moments. Whether it was replicating the latest TikTok dance or turning a mundane grocery store trip into a photoshoot, she had a way of lifting the spirits of those around her. Her greatest joy came from her son, who was said to inherit her boundless heart and spirit.
Acknowledging the loss Shontae’s family has endured, a statement from the prosecuting team expressed gratitude for the community’s support during the difficult trial process. “Trials and sentencing hearings can never bring back the people we cherish, but they can provide some closure for families and safety for the community. I know the feelings of loss have been overwhelming for Shontae’s family, particularly as they have had to relive their trauma throughout the court process,” the statement read.
The Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office recognized the efforts of those involved in the case, including Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney Nassir Aboreden, Senior Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Abhimanyu Mehta, and Victim Advocates Deena Ware, Lydia Hatcher, and Ada Lazo, who supported Shontae’s family throughout the process.
The statement concluded with a message to Shontae’s loved ones: “Our hearts go out to all of those who knew and loved Shontae – through them, the memory of her joy, vibrant personality, and deep love will endure.”