Akili McDowell Arrested Over Murder Charges, ‘David Makes Man’ Star Involved in Houston Shooting

Television actor Akili McDowell has been arrested and charged with murder in connection with a fatal shooting in Houston, according to authorities.

McDowell, known for his role in David Makes Man, was booked into the Harris County Jail on Thursday, August 1, facing charges of murder and theft, as indicated by online jail records.

It is not yet clear whether he has entered a plea or secured legal representation.

Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez announced McDowell’s arrest in a Facebook statement released on August 3. The statement detailed that the shooting occurred on July 20 in the parking lot of an apartment complex in Houston.

Deputies who arrived at the scene discovered a man with gunshot wounds.

The victim was pronounced dead at the scene and later identified as 20-year-old Cesar Peralta, according to the statement.

Gonzalez stated that investigators believe those involved in the shooting fled the scene. It remains unclear how McDowell was identified as a suspect or whether he had any prior connection to the victim.

McDowell, age 21, is best known for portraying David in the coming-of-age drama series David Makes Man, which debuted on OWN in August 2019.

In 2019, McDowell was featured in their “One to Watch” series, highlighting rising stars. At that time, McDowell expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, “I feel so blessed,” referring to his success with David Makes Ma*.

According to online jail records, McDowell is being held on a $400,000 bond related to the murder charge and is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, August 5.