Capital Murder Charges for Tyler Man

LONGVIEW � A Gregg County grand jury has indicted a Tyler man for capital murder, which now makes him eligible for the death penalty. Gregg County District Attorney Carl Dorrough tells KETK Isaiah Roberts, 30, has been indicted for his alleged role in a June 15 double homicide that took place in the 300 block of Thelma Street in Longview. Roberts is accused of shooting and killing his ex-wife, Chanda Martin, as well as Kim Rayson. Police say Roberts then led officers and deputies on a chase through Gregg and Smith Counties. After avoiding several spike strips during the pursuit, he sped through several intersections, causing a major accident involving four vehicles, according to officials. Two people were injured.

Roberts was eventually stopped at the intersection of Glenwood Boulevard and Hill Avenue and was taken into custody. When police searched his vehicle they reportedly found he was in possession of two firearms. According to Tyler Police Officer Don Martin, upon further investigation of the crash, it was later determined that the crash occurred prior to the police pursuit entering the crash scene. The Tyler Police Department requested the Smith County District Attorney�s office to dismiss the five counts of accident causing injury against Roberts. A capital murder indictment carries a conviction penalty of life in prison or death. Roberts remains in the Gregg County Jail on $2 million bond.