Another deal is the works for a second accused shooter.
Family and friends of Gerry Grandzol packed the courtroom, grasping each other and wiping away tears as 21-year-old Maurice Roberts admitted to his part in the murder of the 38-year-old father, lawyer and community activist.
Grandzol was shot twice in the cheek near 15th and Melon streets in September 2017.
Judge Glenn Bronson viewed what prosecutors say was crystal-clear video and heard audio of the incident. Gerry, they say, was willing gave the two suspects his wallet with $60 inside. And when they demanded his keys, he asked to just get his 2-year-old daughter out of the car.
"As (Roberts) moves closer to the back bumper," said Prosecutor Joanne Pescatore, "he says, 'We don’t care,' and it’s after that point that Marvin (Roberts)" — Maurice's brother — "goes over and grabs Gerry by the arm and then swings him around and shoots him twice."
Pescatore and Supervisor of the Homicide Unit Anthony Voci say the two were then seen on SEPTA surveillance video laughing as they get on the subway at Broad Street and Fairmount Avenue. Crime scene investigators pulled a handprint from the bench Maurice was seen leaning on, and that’s what led detectives to the brothers, Pescatore told the judge.
Grandzol’s widow, Kristin, read aloud letters she wrote from their daughter's point of view about the trauma and anxiety she now endures.
Nearly a dozen others also spoke, including Grandzol’s sisters, brother, in-laws and friends.
Bronson sentenced Maurice Roberts to 25 to 50 years in prison, calling the murder "senseless and outrageous."
"He didn’t want this to happen," said defense attorney Mike Medway. "He certainly had no intention to do anything, to harm anyone."
A hearing has been scheduled in that matter for February.