Cheeontah Howard, a 29-year-old African American woman, was tragically killed on February 19, 2016, in Gastonia, North Carolina. Her death occurred outside Room 148 at the Red Carpet Inn & Suites on Broadcast Street. The incident was linked to gang activity, with authorities indicating that individuals were attempting to steal drugs and money from her.
Mahogany Samone Smith, a 19-year-old woman, was charged with first-degree murder in connection with Cheeontah Howard's death.
Additionally, Tyquan Ramont Powell and Lamonte Kentrell Lloyd were apprehended and charged with murder, attempted armed robbery, conspiracy to rob someone with a weapon, and possession of a gun as a felon. Powell and Lloyd were also implicated in another homicide that occurred in Halifax County, North Carolina, just weeks before Howard's death.
The investigation revealed that Powell and Lloyd were members of the United Blood Nation gang, and their criminal activities were motivated by the desire to gain promotion within the gang. The gang's involvement in various criminal activities, including murder, assault, firearm possession, witness tampering, and obstruction of justice, was detailed in a 163-page federal indictment.
Cheeontah Howard's death had a significant impact on the local community, leading to a lockdown at the nearby Highland School of Technology as officers searched the scene with a K-9 unit. Her mother described her as a sweet and loving person with no enemies. The suspects, Powell and Lloyd, are currently being held at Central Prison in Raleigh, North Carolina.
The case against Mahogany Samone Smith, Tyquan Ramont Powell, and Lamonte Kentrell Lloyd is ongoing, with prosecutors and police continuing their investigation. The tragic loss of Cheeontah Howard highlights the devastating consequences of gang violence and the impact it has on communities and families.
