Dr. Cameisha Denise Clark Obituary, Death: Spartan College Dean fatally shot in Inglewood.

Dr. Cameisha Denise Clark Obituary, Death – Dr. Cameisha Denise Clark, a respected dean at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology, has been identified as the victim of a deadly shooting that took place on Friday at the school’s Inglewood campus. The violent incident, which also left another employee injured, has stunned the local community and raised serious concerns about campus safety.
The shooting occurred within an administrative office on the campus grounds. Dr. Clark, 35 years old, was critically injured during the attack and rushed to the hospital. Despite efforts to save her, she succumbed to her injuries on Monday. A second victim, a 37-year-old receptionist, also suffered gunshot wounds and remains hospitalized but is currently in stable condition, according to authorities.
The suspect in the shooting has been identified as Jesse Figueroa, a 40-year-old man from Monterey Park who was employed as a security guard at the college. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has filed several charges against Figueroa, including one count of murder, one count of attempted murder, and additional firearm-related offenses. If convicted on all counts, Figueroa could face a life sentence in a California state prison.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman addressed the public following the announcement of the charges, calling the shooting a deeply disturbing act that shattered the sense of safety at an institution dedicated to education and professional advancement. “Any student, faculty member, or employee should feel safe and secure going to school,” Hochman said, underscoring the broader impact of the tragedy on the academic community.
Further details from the investigation reveal that the firearm used in the crime was a 9mm handgun. A spent shell casing was recovered from the scene of the shooting, and when authorities apprehended Figueroa, they discovered a handgun in his vehicle. The Los Angeles Police Department played a critical role in locating and arresting the suspect soon after the incident took place.
Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts confirmed that Figueroa had only recently been hired as a security guard at Spartan College, raising questions about the hiring process and background checks involved. Officials have not released information about a possible motive, but the incident appears to be targeted, as both victims were college employees.
Dr. Clark’s death has left a deep void within the academic and local communities. Her family released a heartfelt statement describing her as a deeply compassionate and loyal individual who was dedicated to both her students and her professional mission. They noted that she had only recently been promoted to dean—a testament to her leadership, work ethic, and contributions to the field of education.
Spartan College President Chris Becker expressed sorrow over the loss, calling the shooting a devastating blow to the institution. He extended his condolences to Dr. Clark’s family, friends, and colleagues, and assured the public that counseling services would be made available to both students and staff affected by the traumatic event. Becker added that the college is working closely with law enforcement to understand how such an incident could have occurred and to ensure the future safety of everyone on campus.
The campus has since ramped up its security measures, and school administrators are reviewing policies and procedures related to workplace safety and emergency preparedness. Students and faculty members have voiced their grief, shock, and concern over the violent episode, with many participating in vigils and online tributes in honor of Dr. Clark.
The incident also reignites broader conversations about gun violence, particularly in spaces traditionally considered safe, such as schools and colleges. Community leaders and educators have joined together in calling for more stringent security protocols and better mental health support for staff and students alike. They argue that tragic events like this underscore the importance of proactive measures to prevent workplace and campus violence before it happens.
While the legal process moves forward, the memory of Dr. Cameisha Clark continues to be honored by those who knew and admired her. Former students have shared testimonials online, praising her mentorship and the positive influence she had on their lives and careers. Her commitment to education and leadership, even in the face of adversity, has left a lasting legacy.
As the case against Jesse Figueroa proceeds through the courts, authorities are expected to release more information regarding the circumstances leading up to the shooting. In the meantime, the Inglewood and Spartan College communities remain united in grief, determined to remember Dr. Clark not just for the tragic way her life ended, but for the meaningful work she accomplished during her time as an educator and leader.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that can exist even in institutions dedicated to learning and growth, and it emphasizes the need for ongoing efforts to protect those who dedicate their lives to education.