NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) – It’s been more than six months since the son of prominent anti-gun violence activist, Bilal Muhammed, was killed in Norfolk.

On June 29, 2023, Ali Muhammad, 33, was shot and killed outside his home. The shooting happened in the Ocean View neighborhood of Norfolk on 1st Bay St.

On Aug. 4., police arrested Jalen Garces, 29, in connection with the shooting. Garces was charged with second-degree murder and felony use of a firearm as a first offense. He was scheduled for a preliminary hearing on Feb. 21, but WAVY confirmed it was continued until March 20. The Commonwealth’s Attorney said Garces had a conflicting DUI charge in Virginia Beach that was being heard on Feb. 21.

Jalen Garces (Photo courtesy: VBSO)

Ali leaves behind three young daughters.

Bilal said he was on the phone with his son at the time of the shooting.

Bilal hopes Garces gets the maximum penalty.

“Jalen must pay. He must do lifetime in prison,” Bilal said in a previous interview.  “Jalen knew that Ali was a member of the Stop the Violence team. Jalen knew what Ali father stood for and other perpetrators, they know what we stand for. So why would you want to pull the trigger on a person that’s trying to do justice and peace in the community?”

According to Virginia Code, second-degree murder could range from five to 40 years in prison. Garces could receive an additional three years in prison for use of a firearm.

Continue to check WAVY.com for updates.