LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — Guilty on all counts. That's what a jury decided for the man accused of killing a Lexington Marine outside of Austin City Saloon in 2014. Soon the jury will decide Dawan Mulazim's punishment, which could be death. Prosecutors said he was a nine-time convicted felon when he robbed and murdered Jonathan Price.
The sentencing phase of his trial started today. Monday jurors found Mulazim guilty of intention murder and robbery, along with other charges.
Police say Price was shot and killed. His wife Megan, also shot, but survived. The two were out celebrating her birthday when both were attacked.
In court, Megan Price said she no longer celebrates birthdays anymore. When asked why by the prosecutor, she said, "Because it reminds me of the worst day of my life."
Dawan Mulazim and Quincinio Canada were both charged with his murder. In June 2018, both men were found guilty on unrelated robbery charges for which Mulazim was sentenced to 60 years and Canada to 50 .
Canada was acquitted of Price's murder, but the jury failed to reach a verdict on Mulazim.
During today's sentencing phase, Debbie Price talked about losing her only child. "I've got a Jonathan sized hole in my heart." She went on to say she misses her son and misses knowing she will never have grandchildren.
During the first trial, Megan Price was one of the Commonwealth's witnesses. She told the court that it was her birthday and they went to Austin City Saloon to celebrate. The couple walked outside of the bar to head home, when Megan said she saw a man approach her with a gun, she said she also saw another man with a gun .
In the second trial, Mulazim was found guilty of intentional murder (principle or complicit), first-degree robbery (principle or complicit), complicity to first-degree robbery, second-degree assault (principle or complicit), as well as two counts of receiving stolen property under $500.
Mulazim’s mother, Dawn, painted a much different picture of a man now convicted of murder.
“Helpful, compassionate. I used to drive a church bus, he would help the little old ladies off and on,” said Dawn Mulazim. “That is my baby, he means everything to me.”
Closing arguments in the sentencing phase are scheduled for Wednesday. The jury will begin deliberations afterward
