On August 26, 2022, Shanti Lewis, an 18-year-old recent graduate of Gadsden County High School, tragically lost her life in a drive-by shooting in Quincy, Florida. The incident occurred just before 10 p.m. on West Crawford Street. According to the Quincy Police Department, Lewis was driving west on West Crawford Street near South Ninth Street when her vehicle was struck multiple times by gunfire from another vehicle traveling behind and then beside her. Despite the presence of two passengers in her vehicle, they were unharmed, but Lewis succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
The investigation into Lewis's death quickly identified Arderrious Makey Smith, a 23-year-old man, as the primary suspect. Smith was already under investigation for another fatal shooting that occurred less than a week earlier, on August 21, 2022, which claimed the life of 20-year-old Quadre Kirkland. In both cases, the victims' vehicles were found riddled with bullet holes, suggesting a similar modus operandi. Smith was subsequently arrested and charged with first-degree murder and attempted homicide in connection with Kirkland's death. He is also facing charges of first-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder for the killing of Shanti Lewis.
The arrest of Smith was the result of a collaborative effort between the Quincy Police Department, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Florida Highway Patrol, and the State Attorney’s Office. Quincy Police Chief Timothy Ashley emphasized the importance of community cooperation and the effectiveness of law enforcement partnerships in solving these violent crimes. The arrest was seen as a significant step towards justice for the victims and their families, as well as a measure to curb the rising violence in Quincy.
In the aftermath of these tragic events, Quincy city officials and law enforcement have been working to implement programs aimed at reducing violence in the community. These initiatives include counseling and education programs, gun buy-back schemes, and increased enforcement of existing laws. The goal is to create a safer environment for all residents, particularly the youth, and to prevent such senseless acts of violence from occurring in the future. The community's response to these incidents has been one of solidarity and a renewed commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its members.
