The Pensacola man charged with the murder of Evan Blansett in August 2022 was sentenced on manslaughter charges Wednesday.
The Office of the State Attorney originally charged 28-year-old Malik Gaines for second-degree murder with a firearm and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, but Gaines took a plea deal in June 2024 that decreased his murder charge to manslaughter with a weapon.
Gaines was sentenced to 20 years in state prison, the cap for his plea deal, which will run concurrently with multiple other charges stemming from other cases. He will also have credit for 778 days he’s served in county jail.
What happened on Aug. 16, 2022?
Escambia County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested Gaines on Aug. 16, 2022, after they responded to Erress Boulevard for shots fired and a crashed vehicle engulfed in flames.
During the investigation, deputies discovered that Gaines fired multiple shots into Blansett’s vehicle as he was driving, causing the vehicle to crash and catch fire.
Despite Blansett suffering a single gunshot wound to the chest, the medical examiner determined he died from injuries sustained in the fiery crash, according to Gaines’ arrest report.
Malik Gaines alleges he was trying to shoot out the tires
After being arrested, Gaines told investigators he was with a group on Erress Boulevard and Cheyenne Circle when someone ran up to them and claimed Blansett had stolen something.
“As the truck then began to travel north on Erress Boulevard back towards the group, Gaines began to fire a gun he was carrying at the vehicle in an attempt to shoot the tires out,” his report said. “Gaines stated that the truck then lost control and crashed into a yard on Erress Boulevard.”
The report says Gaines and the men he was with fled the scene after Blansett’s truck crashed.
Legal Support for Shooting Victims
Being a victim of a shooting can be a traumatic experience with long-lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences. Ovadia Law Group understands the complexities of such cases and is here to provide the legal guidance you need. Our team is experienced in handling shooting-related claims, ensuring that victims receive the justice and compensation they deserve. We work diligently to investigate the circumstances of the incident, identify responsible parties, and pursue maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. If you or a loved one has been involved in a shooting, call Ovadia Law Group at 1-800-674-9396 for a free consultation, and let our experienced legal team fight for your rights.
Source: pnj
