A Lexington Park man was sentenced to life plus 30 years in prison Monday for the 2024 murder of a 23-year-old victim in St. Mary’s County.
State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling announced the sentence for Zahlir Daylin Gantt, 23. Following a four-day bench trial in February 2026, Gantt was convicted of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a violent crime, and illegal possession of a regulated firearm by a disqualified person.
The case stemmed from a Feb. 26, 2024, shooting near Fox Ridge Road and Valley Drive in Lexington Park. Deputies responded to reports of gunfire and found the victim inside a vehicle suffering a gunshot wound to the head. He later succumbed to his injuries.
The court imposed a sentence of life plus life plus 25 years, with life plus 30 years of active incarceration.
“Those who choose to commit calculated and deliberate acts of violence will be held fully accountable for the devastating consequences of their actions,” Sterling said. “These crimes leave lasting scars on victims’ families and our community, and this sentence reflects the gravity of that irreversible harm.”
Deputy State’s Attorney Alena Mosier prosecuted the case. Detective Warren Forinash of the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office led the investigation. The Honorable Joseph Stanalonis presided.
The conviction and sentencing underscore ongoing efforts by local law enforcement and prosecutors to address gun violence in Southern Maryland communities. Lexington Park, a key area in St. Mary’s County, has seen focused initiatives to reduce such incidents and support affected families.
