Bio

Marcus Reymond Robinson was born on April 2, 1973. He grew up in North Carolina, where he had some difficulties in his life. At a young age, he also suffered a head injury, which could have affected his behavior in the years to come.

As a teenager, Robinson faced challenges with the law. He had run-ins with the police and was involved in criminal activities. At the age of 18, shortly before his involvement in serious crimes, he was released from prison. This return to freedom would not last long and would lead him down a troubling path.

Murder Story

On the morning of July 21, 1991, Erik Tornblom, a 17-year-old working at Chi Chi's restaurant in Cumberland County, North Carolina, did not return home after his shift. Later that day, his body was found, having been shot in the face with a shotgun. Witnesses reported seeing a black male drive Erik’s car to a different location, exit the vehicle, and wipe down the steering wheel and door handle.

Roderick Williams was identified as the black male seen with Erik's car. He was arrested and pointed to Marcus Reymond Robinson as his accomplice in the murder. After his arrest, Robinson was taken into custody, where he was informed of his rights. Initially, he denied involvement but later confessed. Robinson admitted that he and Williams had observed Erik entering a store. While Erik was inside, Robinson took out a sawed-off shotgun hidden in his clothing and gave it to Williams. When Erik left the store and agreed to give them a ride, Williams forced him to drive to another location, holding the shotgun to the back of Erik's neck.

In his confession, Robinson stated that Erik pleaded for his life, claiming he had no money. After forcing Erik out of the car, he made him lie on the ground. Williams then shot Erik in the face with the shotgun. Following the murder, Robinson took Erik's wallet and shared the money with Williams. He later led police to where he had hidden the shotgun and the spent shell.

Robinson and Williams were indicted by a jury on August 5, 1991, facing several charges, including first-degree murder. During his trial on July 13, 1994, Robinson pleaded guilty to all charges except first-degree murder. The jury was tasked to determine his guilt based on two theories: felony murder and premeditated murder. The jury found Robinson guilty of first-degree murder under both theories, noting that the murder occurred during the commission of a robbery and was especially cruel.

The jury found some mitigating factors regarding Robinson, such as a lack of prior criminal history and mental health issues. However, they ultimately decided that these factors were outweighed by the aggravating circumstances. On August 5, 1994, Robinson was sentenced to death for the murder of Erik Tornblom, along with additional concurrent sentences for robbery and related charges.