Cambridge Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Fatal 2021 Shooting in Norwood

Four years after a fatal shooting in Norwood, a 31-year-old Cambridge man has been sentenced on September 25, 2025 to life in prison by a justice of Norfolk County Superior Court, announced Norfolk District Attorney (DA) Michael W. Morrissey.

Ernest D. Payne pled guilty to second degree murder for the shooting death of 28-year-old Shakim Lewis-Johnson of Hyde Park on September 19, 2021. Mr. Lewis-Johnson was leaving a friend's residence on Sturtevant Avenue in Norwood when he was shot multiple times. He was transported by medical helicopter to Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston where he died during emergency surgery.

"We hope Shakim's family and friends will be able to heal from the trauma they suffered from this senseless act of violence," said DA Morrisey following the sentencing by Justice Micheal Doolin. The DA acknowledged and praised the help of victim-witness advocate Jennifer Bishop for helping Mr. Lewis-Johnson's family with the court process.

Mr. Payne was arrested in Miami, Florida, in March 2022 after a warrant was obtained following an extensive investigation by Norwood Police, Massachusetts State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section (VFAS) and Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to the DA's office.

According to the DA, the defendant will be eligible for parole in 15 years.

Thanks to Norfolk District Attorney Michael Morrissey for sharing this news with Westwood Minute.

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