Latoya Andrea Lucas, a 19-year-old Wilson, North Carolina, woman who was previously charged in connection with the June 23 homicide of 16-year-old Ladarrius “D’Baby” Simmons, is in critical condition after being shot multiple times at the Wilson County Courthouse Monday afternoon in what authorities believe was a retaliatory shooting.
The suspect, identified by Wilson County Sheriff Calvin Woodard Jr. as Abdul Karim Mustafa, is in custody after allegedly shooting Lucas several times before opening fire on responding law enforcement officers.
Wilson Police Department declared a critical incident in downtown Wilson just before 11 a.m. Monday. The shooting occurred at or near the Wilson County Courthouse. Sheriff Woodard Jr. confirmed during a 2 p.m. press conference that Mustafa shot Lucas multiple times and then fired on officers.
A Wilson County deputy was struck in his ballistic vest (non-life-threatening injuries, expected to recover). A Wilson police officer was hit in the arm (non-life-threatening injuries, expected to recover).
Lucas, who lived at the Spruce Street residence where Simmons was killed, remains in critical condition at an area hospital.
Connection to Prior Homicide
On June 23, 2026, 16-year-old Ladarrius “D’Baby” Simmons was shot and killed inside a home on Spruce Street in Wilson. Now 18-year-old Jamel Hines was charged with murder in that case.
Wilson Police Charge Jamel Hines with Murder in the Shooting Death of 16-Year-Old Ladarrius “D’Baby” Simmons
Hines was 17 at the time of the shooting.
On June 29, Latoya Andrea Lucas and Valenta Deondra Lucas (41) were arrested and charged in connection with the homicide investigation.
Latoya Andrea Lucas was charged with Felony Accessory After the Fact to Murder and Felony Obstructing Justice. She is accused of providing false statements to police to help the shooter avoid detection and arrest.
Valenta Deondra Lucas was charged with Felony Obstructing Justice.
Authorities have described today’s shooting of Lucas as retaliatory, linked to her alleged role in the earlier case.
17-Year-Old Charged with Murdering 16-Year-Old D’Baby Simmons – Plus Man & Woman Charged With Accessory & Obstructing Justice Charges
The family of Ladarrius “D’Baby” Simmons released a statement to The North Carolina Beat denying any involvement in the shooting.
Statement from the Family of Ladarrius “D’Baby” Simmons
“Greetings, everyone.
First, I want to thank each of you for the love, support, prayers, and concern you have shown my family following the tragic loss of my son, Ladarrius Simmons. Your kindness has meant more to us than words can express.
In light of today’s incident involving the shooting at the Wilson County Courthouse, I want to make something very clear. My family and I were present only to seek legal justice for my son. We are in no way affiliated with the violent act that occurred.
The individual responsible acted alone and according to his own decisions. Neither my family nor I had any involvement, knowledge, or connection to what took place.
We respectfully ask that no one associate us with this crime or hold us responsible for the actions of another person.
We do not call for violence, retaliation, or revenge. We reject and condemn any act that causes more pain and suffering. Retaliation does not bring healing or justice.
We ask that everyone allow the judicial system to do its work. Above all, we stand on the belief that vengeance belongs to God.
Please continue to keep our family in your prayers as we navigate this heartbreaking journey. Thank you for your continued love and support.
Peacefully, Kim Simmons Melvin
Long Live Ladarrius❤️🕊”
Officials have stated there is no ongoing threat to the public. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) is assisting with the investigation.
Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots and seeing people running from the area.
This is a developing story. The NC Beat will continue to provide updates as more official information is released.
