On Tuesday, May 6th, a former security guard was charged with murder following the fatal shooting of a college dean at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology in Inglewood, California. Dr. Cameisha Denise Clark, the victim, died on Monday, from critical injuries sustained during a campus shooting on Friday.
The suspect, 40-year-old Jesse Figueroa of Monterey Park, was charged with one count of murder, one count of attempted murder, and two additional felony counts related to firearm possession by a felon with prior violent convictions. If convicted on all charges, Figueroa faces a potential life sentence in state prison.
The shooting occurred around 3:45 p.m. on Friday inside an office at the Inglewood campus. Authorities reported that both Clark and another female employee were shot, with the second victim hospitalized in stable condition. Figueroa, a former security guard at the college, was identified as the shooter and was reportedly wearing a security uniform at the time. His vehicle was located a few hours later in Koreatown, leading to his arrest.
District Attorney Nathan Hochman emphasized the severity of the crime, stating, “Any student, faculty member, or employee should feel safe and secure going to school. This horrific act of gun violence has shaken Spartan College and our entire community.”
Clark, who had recently been promoted to dean, was remembered by her family as a compassionate and dedicated educator. “Her presence was a gift, and the void left behind is immeasurable,” the family said. Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Clark had previously worked at Clark Atlanta University and was known for her mentorship and leadership. “She believed in the potential of others even when they could not yet see it in themselves,” they added.
Inglewood Mayor James Butts described the shooting as an act of workplace violence, noting that both victims were school employees. The motive behind the shooting remains under investigation. Chris Becker, president of the Inglewood campus, expressed his sorrow and confirmed that counseling services have been arranged for students and staff in the wake of the tragedy.
