In the spring of 2016, a tragedy unfolded in a northwest Las Vegas home, cutting short the life of 46-year-old Felicia Wimberly-Hughes, a Black/African American woman. On March 31st, what began as a domestic disturbance escalated into a violent confrontation that would leave three people, including Felicia, and a police K-9, dead. The events of that day were set in motion by her husband, Lester Hughes.
Concerned family members had been unable to reach Felicia, prompting a welfare check
at her residence. When police arrived, they found a scene that suggested a violent struggle had taken place. The investigation would later reveal that Felicia and her 31-year-old son, Branden Hughes, had both been shot and killed inside the home. The Clark County Coroner's Office later confirmed that both had died from multiple gunshot wounds.
The search for the person responsible led police to a confrontation with Lester Hughes, who had fled the initial scene. When officers located him, he was armed and a standoff ensued. During the attempt to apprehend him, a police K-9 named Nicky was deployed and was fatally shot by Hughes. The confrontation ended when officers returned fire, killing Lester Hughes. The investigation concluded that he was the sole suspect in the deaths of his wife and stepson.
