Man Convicted of Murder in Death of Brianna McKoy, Daughter of Dancehall Icon Ricky Trooper

Bridgeport, Connecticut — Derrick Francis, the man accused of killing 23-year-old Brianna McKoy, the daughter of popular dancehall selector Ricky Trooper, was convicted of murder on Friday by a three-judge panel in Connecticut.

McKoy, who shared a young child with Francis, was found unresponsive inside her condominium in Bridgeport around 11:20 a.m. on April 6, 2023. Authorities confirmed that an infant, later identified as the couple’s child, was found unharmed inside the home following the shooting.

Francis, who also goes by the name Ainsley Forbes, was swiftly named as the prime suspect in the killing. Following a multi-state search, he was captured two days later in Solon, Ohio, after a dramatic encounter with police. According to the Bridgeport Police Department, officers from the Solon Police Department pulled over Francis’ vehicle. He reportedly attempted to flee on foot but was quickly apprehended. A loaded firearm was recovered from the vehicle he was driving at the time.

The conviction comes after months of legal proceedings that highlighted a troubled relationship between McKoy and Francis. Prosecutors detailed a history of domestic issues and presented evidence linking Francis to the scene of the crime.

Francis now faces a maximum sentence of 60 years in prison. He is scheduled to be sentenced by the panel on June 5.

The tragic death of McKoy sent shockwaves through both the Connecticut and Jamaican communities, as her father, Ricky Trooper, is a prominent figure in the global dancehall music scene. Tributes poured in for McKoy in the aftermath of her death, remembering her as a devoted mother and a vibrant young woman whose life was cut short.

Authorities have not disclosed the specific motive behind the shooting but indicated that the relationship between McKoy and Francis had been strained in the months leading up to the incident.

Francis remains in custody as he awaits sentencing.