Life Sentence for Convenience Store Clerk’s Murderer

Marcus Kenneth Cox-Davis, 24, was sentenced to life in prison this week for the murder of convenience store clerk Donna Peña in 2019, announced Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg.

“This defendant had no regard for anyone else when he used a gun to rob and steal, and now the victim’s family will never again see this hardworking and beloved woman,” Ogg said. “This agreement ensures that the defendant will spend decades in prison with no appeals.”

Cox-Davis faced life in prison without parole if convicted of capital murder for the shooting of 32-year-old Donna Peña, a mother of two who was killed while working at a gas station in northwest Harris County on March 8, 2019.

Harris County Sheriff’s deputies collected evidence, including surveillance video of the crime. The perpetrator, seen wearing a blue hoodie in the video, was linked to DNA found on the garment.

Cox-Davis pleaded guilty to murder on Monday in exchange for a life sentence. He cannot appeal his conviction or sentence and must serve at least 30 years before parole eligibility.

Assistant District Attorney Chandler Raine, alongside ADA Michael Hanover, prosecuted the case.

“He gave this woman about two seconds to open the cash register before he opened fire, killing her,” Raine said. “It is just an awful case, and this was the right decision for the victim’s family who want to put this ordeal behind them so they can mourn in peace.”