A former mixed martial arts fighter who founded an anti-violence nonprofit with a specific focus on gun crime was convicted of murder in the shooting death of another man in Colorado earlier this week.
A jury found Lumumba Sayers, 47, guilty of second-degree murder, tampering with physical evidence and attempt to commit tampering with physical violence, according to a release from the 17th Judicial District Attorney's Office.
Sayers will be sentenced on July 24. Sentencing guidelines in Colorado prescribe a 16-to-48-year prison sentence for second-degree murder.
Prosecutors said Sayers left an anti-violence event Aug. 10, 2024, and drove to a children's birthday party at a local water park, where he walked up to the victim, Malcolm Johnson, and shot him multiple times, Colorado Public Radio police arrived on the scene.
The now-convicted murderer ran Heavy Hands Heavy Hearts, a nonprofit that describes itself as a "non-profit organization dedicated to transforming lives through education, mentorship, and community." It is heavily focused on physical training, and reportedly received state and federal grants for its "Glovez Up, Gunz Down Movement" program.
"At Heavy Hands Heavy Hearts, we foster a culture of accountability, both in and out of the gym," the organization's site says. "Through training, individuals learn discipline, respect, and self-control, promoting responsible behavior and healthy relationships."
Sayers competed in Strikeforce MMA in 2011 and 2012, where he fought against future UFC contenders, according to MMA Junkie. Strikeforce was acquired by a different company and eventually absorbed completely into UFC.
Sayers' attorney did not immediately return a request for comment.