Oklahoma City Teacher Lakisha Mayberry Seeks Justice After Surviving Head Injury in Drive-By Shooting
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — On January 22, 2024, Lakisha Mayberry, affectionately known as “Ms. Nikki” by her students, experienced a life-altering event that has since defined her journey toward healing and justice. While at home, Mayberry became the unintended victim of a drive-by shooting, sustaining a gunshot wound to the head. Miraculously, she survived and is now preparing to face the accused in court, seeking answers and advocating for change.
The Incident
That evening, Mayberry was inside her residence when the sound of gunfire shattered the calm. Five bullet holes marked her home as evidence of the violence that erupted without warning. In the chaos, she felt a sudden, sharp pain and quickly realized she had been struck. Her son, witnessing the immediate aftermath, pleaded, “Mom, please don’t die. I love you.” The severity of the situation was undeniable, and Mayberry was swiftly transported to the hospital for emergency care.
Road to Recovery
The physical and emotional toll of the incident has been profound. Over a year later, Mayberry continues to grapple with lingering pain from her injuries. The psychological scars are equally enduring; she experiences heightened post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), struggles with sleep disturbances, and lives with the persistent fear of a recurrence. Despite these challenges, the unwavering support from her family and students has been a cornerstone of her resilience. Their love and encouragement fuel her determination to persevere and fulfill her roles as both a mother and an educator.
Pursuit of Justice
The legal proceedings against the two teenagers accused of the shooting are set to commence on April 16, 2025. Mayberry is resolute in her decision to testify, aiming to shed light on the events of that fateful night and to seek justice not only for herself but also for her family and community. She remains puzzled by the motive behind the attack, as no clear connection between her and the assailants has been established. Her hope is that the court case will provide much-needed answers and a sense of closure.
A Message to the Accused
In anticipation of confronting the individuals responsible, Mayberry has a heartfelt message: “Put the guns away. You almost took me away from my family, from my kids. Luckily, God said it wasn’t my time for me to go yet, so I still have a purpose here on earth.” Her words underscore the profound impact of gun violence and serve as a plea for change within the community.
Community Support and Advocacy
The incident has galvanized local efforts to address gun violence and support victims. Community organizations are collaborating to provide resources for those affected and to implement preventative measures aimed at curbing such tragedies. Mayberry’s courage in sharing her story has inspired many to join the conversation and advocate for safer neighborhoods.
Looking Ahead
As the court date approaches, Mayberry remains focused on her recovery and her mission to make a difference. She continues to teach, drawing strength from her students and the knowledge that her experience can serve as a catalyst for change. Her journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community support in the face of adversity.
For those interested in supporting Mayberry’s ongoing recovery and advocacy efforts, a GoFundMe page has been established to assist with medical expenses and related costs.
Mayberry’s story is a poignant reminder of the unforeseen challenges life can present and the unwavering determination required to overcome them. Her resolve to seek justice and promote change stands as an inspiration to all who face adversity.