Mount Ephraim, N.J. - Luke Humphrey, the 18-year-old South Jersey wrestler charged in the death of local sports coach Oron Carl “Snook” Beebe Jr., was found not guilty Wednesday, March 25, in Camden County Superior Court. A jury acquitted Humphrey of manslaughter and related assault charges after deliberating for about three hours.


The altercation occurred on March 23, 2024, in the parking lot of a Walgreens in Mount Ephraim. Prosecutors alleged that Humphrey punched Beebe during the incident, causing him to fall and suffer a head injury. Beebe was taken to a hospital, where he later died.

During the trial, Humphrey testified that he acted in self-defense, telling jurors he feared for his own safety and the safety of his family. Defense attorneys argued the punch came during a tense confrontation that escalated quickly.


The verdict prompted an emotional reaction in the courtroom, with Humphrey crying as jurors returned not guilty findings, while Beebe’s family stormed out. Although the criminal trial has ended, a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Beebe’s widow remains active against Humphrey and businesses alleging wrongful death.