Raymond Wright Jr., formerly a resident of New York, has been convicted of the murder of his girlfriend, Samantha Humphrey. The homicide occurred in November 2022, when both Wright Jr. and Humphrey were only 14 years old. Wright Jr., now 18, is poised to be sentenced on January 20, 2027, facing the possibility of a life sentence.
Samantha Humphrey’s disappearance was reported on November 25, 2022, and her body was discovered in the Mohawk River three months later, in February 2023. The events leading to her death unfolded during a discussion about her potential pregnancy with Wright Jr.
During a two-week trial in New York state, prosecutors argued that Wright Jr. strangled Humphrey following a heated debate over her pregnancy, where Wright Jr. was believed to be the father. The prosecution’s case was supported by evidence that included DNA, GPS data, and phone records. Additionally, Wright Jr. conducted online searches related to decomposition of bodies in water the day after Humphrey went missing.
The medical examiner confirmed strangulation as the cause of death. However, Wright Jr. claimed in court that he only punched Humphrey and pushed her into the river, without knowing the subsequent events that led to her demise.
Reflecting on the verdict, Samantha’s family shared their emotional turmoil and doubt following the tragic incident. Her father, Jeff Humphrey, expressed disbelief over the occurrence but highlighted his daughter’s courage in the face of fear.
Wright Jr. was apprehended in May 2025, and is scheduled for sentencing in January 2027.