CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) — A Charleston County jury has convicted a man of murder in connection with the 2023 killing of Wesley Francis, a server at The Tempest restaurant, prosecutors announced Friday.
Tyler Deshayne Heyward was sentenced to life in prison by Judge Jennifer McCoy.
“Judge McCoy recognized the urgency in keeping Heyward off the streets forever,” Solicitor Scarlett Wilson said in a statement. “Wes’ family has been unbelievably patient and supportive of our prosecution. Despite this heinous and random act of violence, they remain incredible ambassadors for this great city.”
Francis, 23, was shot and killed shortly after 5 a.m. on Nov. 10, 2023, at a Circle K gas station at the corner of Meeting and Calhoun streets in downtown Charleston. Video evidence showed Heyward exited a Nissan Altima, approached Francis, and fired 18 shots, 16 of which struck Francis…