Shawndel Arnez Weems, age 24, of Monarch Mills Way in Columbia, was found guilty today by a Howard County jury of second-degree murder and use of a handgun in the commission of a crime of violence in the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Simeon Mukuna.
On February 6, 2021, officers from Howard County Police Department arrived at the 7500 block of Monarch Mills Way for a report of a shooting. Upon arrival officers located the victim, Simeon Mukuna, lying on the ground suffering from gunshot wounds. Medics responded and immediately began rendering aid. Mukuna died on the scene.
Witnesses say Mukuna was at that location helping a friend with vehicle maintenance. Mukuna walked to his vehicle to retrieve a jacket. As he walked back across the parking lot, a vehicle pulled up alongside of him. The driver of that vehicle, Shawndel Weems, began shooting at Mukuna striking him multiple times. Weems then parked his vehicle and walked into a nearby apartment where he resided.
A search warrant executed in Weems’ apartment revealed a 9mm handgun and 1 magazine with live rounds in it. The weapon was found with Weems’ Handgun Qualification License (HQL) next to it.
Weems later told investigators that when he drove through the parking lot he felt as though Mukuna was looking at him with malice and thought he was going to try to harm him. Weems alleges Mukuna was in possession of a handgun. Weems did not know Mukuna, nor had he ever seen him before. No weapon was found near or on Mukuna and no other witnesses observed Mukuna with a gun.
“This loss of life was senseless and utterly unnecessary. We have an 18-year-old young man who had a bright future ahead of him and it was cut short over nothing,” said State’s Attorney Rich Gibson. “Weems’ actions are inexcusable. There is a family in immeasurable pain due to his choice to engage in violence. We thank the jury for this verdict and hope it brings the victim’s family some solace.”
Weems will be sentenced on September 30, 2022. He faces up to 60 years of active incarceration. Deputy State’s Attorney Joshua J. Felsen and Assistant State’s Attorney Katherine S. Bagley prosecuted this case.
Recent Stories
John F. Kennedy High School entered into a shelter-in-place on Friday, April 19, after an incident involving a trespasser with a knife.
Montgomery County Police have announced that the department will be conducting increased traffic enforcement this weekend.
Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS) responded to a multi-vehicle collision on Darnestown Road and Vicars Way, between Turkeyfoot Road and Seneca Road in Darnestown on Friday, April 19.
Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS) responded to the 200blk of Perry Parkway near W. Diamond Ave., around 4pm on Friday, April 19, for the report of a collision.
17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival
Now in its 17th year, the Kensington Day of the Book Festival is a family-friendly street festival featuring 150+ renowned authors, poets, and literary organizations. Enjoy live music on five stages, special guest speakers, military veteran writers and comedians, poetry readings, cookbook demos, children's program, and much more.
Admission is free, and attendees will also be able to explore a marketplace of books and food offerings from local vendors.
Not your average book festival! This festival offers something for everyone!
17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival
Sunday, April 21, 2024, 11am-4pm (held rain or shine!)
Howard Avenue, Kensington, MD 20895
www.dayofthebook.com
Instagram: @kensingtonbookfestival
Contact: Elisenda Sola-Sole, Festival Director
301-949-9416 (text preferred)
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
