Suspect in Long Island murder captured after five years evading law enforcement.
A Long Island man suspected of murder has been arrested after evading law enforcement for five years. Ramel Ferguson, 29, faces charges related to the killing of 31-year-old Karson Banks in Hempstead on October 5, 2020. His apprehension was formally announced by Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly, highlighting the dedication of her office to unresolved homicide cases.
Ferguson’s alleged involvement in Banks’ murder dates back to a tragic incident where Banks was shot multiple times while seated in his vehicle. Investigators report that Ferguson approached Banks’ car and fired four gunshots at close range, fatally wounding him before fleeing the scene. Following the incident, Ferguson abandoned New York, prompting law enforcement officials to search for him across state lines.
In 2021, Ferguson was featured on an episode of “Maryland’s Most Wanted,” raising awareness about his status as a fugitive. Authorities believed he may have sought refuge in the Baltimore area, leveraging his connections in that region. Law enforcement officials characterized him as a member of the Bloods gang, suggesting that he might have turned against Banks, leading to the violent altercation. U.S. Marshal Tony Gause indicated that Ferguson could resort to desperate measures to avoid capture, especially if he felt threatened by others outside law enforcement.
Donnelly expressed her commitment to seeking justice for victims, stating that the prosecution team remains persistent regardless of how much time passes since a crime. Her statements underline the ongoing challenges in resolving cold cases and the importance of diligence in the pursuit of justice.
Details surrounding the circumstances of Ferguson’s capture remain undisclosed, but he was arraigned on Tuesday and is currently being held without bail. The announcement of his arrest brings a renewed sense of resolution to the community impacted by Banks’ tragic death and serves as a reminder of the persistent efforts by law enforcement to hold offenders accountable.
The Nassau County District Attorney’s office has reiterated the importance of community involvement in solving such cases, encouraging anyone with information to come forward. The long-standing investigation serves as a testament to the commitment of law enforcement in ensuring justice prevails, regardless of the passage of time.
