Fayetteville, North Carolina – A man stands accused of first-degree murder in a Valentine’s Day shooting outside a convenience store that claimed the life of a 36-year-old man. The suspect, Tayshon Amonte Covington, allegedly shot Donte Jemal Lucas outside the Time Saver on Shaw and Murchison roads.
Surveillance footage from the scene captured Lucas approaching two individuals outside the store, one of whom was wearing a mask. Moments later, the masked individual pulled out a gun and shot Lucas in the forehead. Despite being rushed to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, Lucas succumbed to his injuries later that night.
The gunman, identified as Covington, was spotted fleeing the scene in a black Chevrolet Tahoe that he arrived in as a passenger. Investigators later discovered that Covington had entered the store wearing the same clothing and mask about 30 to 40 minutes before the shooting. The shooter had even removed the mask at some point during his earlier visit.
Following tips from the public, Covington was identified as “Lil Kodiak” or “Lil Black.” Law enforcement databases revealed that Covington’s nickname was indeed “Kodiak.” Witnesses familiar with Covington confirmed his identity from surveillance footage, and photos on social media matched the individual in the video.
Although the motive behind the killing remains unclear, Covington was apprehended by U.S. Marshals and the Carolinas Regional Fugitive Task Force at an apartment in Garner. Beside the murder charge, Covington also faced a warrant for failing to appear in court for a previous breaking-and-entering charge. He is currently being held without bail at the Cumberland County jail.
The tragedy on Valentine’s Day left a community in mourning, with many seeking justice for the senseless loss of life. Despite the arrest of the suspect, questions linger about the events leading up to the fatal shooting. As the case unfolds, authorities will continue their investigation to bring closure to the victim’s loved ones and ensure that justice is served.