by Ferndale, MI – A Michigan man will spend decades in prison for the road rage shooting death of a DoorDash driver delivering White Castle, authorities say. Terrell Simms, 39, was sentenced this week to 37½ to 80 years for the killing of 26-year-old Mamadou Diallo, who was shot while working a late-night delivery in March 2025.
The case has drawn attention to road rage incidents and violence against delivery workers, who often work late-night hours in busy urban areas.
Simms Convicted of Murder and Firearms Charges
Simms was convicted in October 2025 on charges including second-degree murder, carrying a concealed weapon, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, according to reporting by WDIV. His sentencing marks the end of a case that began nearly two years ago with the tragic death of Diallo.
Fatal Shooting Occurred During Early Morning Delivery
The shooting occurred in the early hours of March 9, 2025, as Diallo picked up an order from White Castle on Woodward Avenue in Ferndale, a suburb of Detroit. Diallo was driving his Ford Escape northbound on Woodward when a GMC truck, speeding recklessly, nearly collided with him, police said.
As Diallo approached Eight Mile Road, the truck slowed, apparently waiting for him to catch up. Authorities allege that Simms then fired six shots at Diallo’s vehicle.
Victim Pronounced Dead at Hospital
Police received the first call reporting gunfire at about 1:45 a.m., followed by a second call reporting a man lying outside a vehicle on the southbound Woodward Avenue bridge over 8 Mile. Officers found Diallo with a gunshot wound to the torso. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Ferndale Police Chief Dennis Emmi expressed sorrow over the incident.
“This was a senseless act of violence that took the life of an innocent man who was simply working to make ends meet,” Emmi said.
“We extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Diallo’s family.”
Investigation Identifies Suspect
Simms was arrested about a month after the shooting. While police indicated that three suspects were initially detained, two were later released. It has not been confirmed whether Simms was the driver of the GMC truck involved in the incident.
The shooting reportedly occurred one day before Diallo’s 27th birthday, adding to the tragedy. Ferndale officials noted that this was the city’s first murder since 2016, highlighting the unusual and shocking nature of the crime.
Conclusion
Simms’ sentence of 37½ to 80 years underscores the severity of the crime and the deadly consequences of road rage. Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of public awareness and safe driving to prevent similar tragedies, while Diallo’s family and the community mourn a life cut short in an act of senseless violence.
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