WEST 38TH STREET AND GEORGETOWN ROAD — Kentrell Settles and his girlfriend were involved in a fatal road rage incident that ended within less than an hour. The couple had been stuck behind a green Ford SUV at a traffic light when the light turned green and the vehicle ahead remained stationary. Settles honked in frustration, but the SUV did not move.
After waiting briefly, Settles decided to drive around the stationary vehicle and continue on his way. It was then that the driver of the SUV, 23-year-old Deborah Benefiel, began following them. Witnesses reported that she shouted and gestured aggressively from behind the wheel, escalating what began as a minor traffic dispute into a dangerous confrontation.
According to accounts from Settles’ girlfriend, she noticed Benefiel approaching in the rearview mirror and immediately sensed the situation was escalating. Before they could react further, a gunshot rang out. The rear window of their car shattered as Settles gasped and slumped forward, blood spreading across his shirt from a chest wound.
In a moment of sheer panic, Settles’ girlfriend took control of the vehicle. She drove to a nearby block, desperately seeking help as the critical situation unfolded. Police and paramedics arrived quickly, but despite rapid emergency response, Settles was pronounced dead at 2:43 p.m., less than sixty minutes after the shooting.
Authorities began an immediate investigation into the shooting. Detectives reviewed surveillance cameras and utilized license plate readers to trace Benefiel. A witness later identified her in a photo lineup, confirming her involvement. Law enforcement described the investigation as fast-moving due to the clear evidence and witness testimony.
During a search of Benefiel’s apartment, police recovered a .40-caliber Glock from her purse. The weapon is believed to be the firearm that killed Settles. Investigators also found evidence that she had attempted to remove identifying markers from her vehicle, including bumper stickers, in an apparent effort to avoid detection.
Benefiel, now charged with murder, is being held without bond. Authorities emphasized that the case highlights the consequences of uncontrolled anger and impulsive decisions. Investigators continue to piece together the exact sequence of events leading up to the shooting.
Neighbors and community members expressed shock over the incident. Many described Settles as a young man full of life, whose life was tragically cut short over a brief and avoidable confrontation. The sudden nature of the violence has left the community grappling with grief and disbelief.
The shooting also raises concerns about road rage incidents and the dangers of firearms in public confrontations. Law enforcement officials urge drivers to remain calm during traffic disputes and to avoid escalating conflicts that can turn deadly within seconds.
As the investigation continues, authorities are seeking any additional witnesses who may have seen or heard the events surrounding the shooting. Meanwhile, the community mourns Kentrell Settles, remembering him as a vibrant young man whose life was abruptly ended by a senseless act of violence.
