Anastasia Ray, an 18-year-old African American woman from High Point, North Carolina, tragically lost her life on August 6, 2018. Anastasia, who was approximately eight months pregnant, was shot in the head while inside her uncle's house on Thissell Street and Commerce Avenue. The shooting occurred late at night, and Anastasia's unborn child also died as a result of the incident. Anastasia was described as a beautiful and loving person, surrounded by a large, happy family.
She had recently graduated from high school and was eagerly anticipating the birth of her son, whom she planned to name Kaiden.
The investigation into Anastasia's death led to the arrest of two suspects. Hykeem Marquis Simmons, a 21-year-old man, was charged with first-degree murder for Anastasia's death. Additionally, 16-year-old Jonas Thompson was also charged with first-degree murder and assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious injury on Corey Ray, Anastasia's uncle, who was also shot during the incident. Corey Ray suffered a gunshot wound to the buttocks but survived.
The case against Hykeem Marquis Simmons progressed through the legal system, and he was eventually found guilty of first-degree murder in January 2023. Simmons was sentenced to two life sentences without the possibility of parole for the deaths of Anastasia Ray and her unborn child. The community of High Point was deeply affected by the tragedy, with many expressing their sorrow and frustration over the senseless violence that claimed the lives of Anastasia and her unborn baby. The case highlighted the devastating impact of gun violence on families and communities, as well as the need for continued efforts to address and prevent such incidents.
