Dr. Cameisha Clark Identified as Victim in Spartan College Shooting; Ex-Security Guard Jesse Figueroa Charged with Her Murder

INGLEWOOD, Calif. — The family of Dr. Cameisha Denise Clark, the respected Spartan College dean who died after a deadly campus shooting last week, is speaking out, remembering her as a radiant, purpose-driven woman whose passion for education left an indelible impact on students coast to coast.

Dr. Clark, 35, was critically wounded in a shooting that occurred Friday afternoon, May 2, inside an office at the Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology campus in Inglewood. She died from her injuries on Monday, her family confirmed in a heartfelt statement released Tuesday.

“We are beyond devastated,” the family wrote. “Cameisha’s life was taken from us far too soon, in an act of senseless violence that no woman should ever have to endure. She was an amazing person who didn’t deserve this. She was living her best life, doing the work she loved.”

Authorities say Clark and another woman, believed to be her receptionist or assistant, were shot by a man identified as 40-year-old Jesse Figueroa, a former security guard from Monterey Park. The suspect allegedly entered the campus office in a security uniform and opened fire. The second victim survived but was left with significant injuries. The motive remains under investigation.

Figueroa was formally charged Tuesday with murder, attempted murder, possession of a firearm with a prior violent conviction, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. He remains in custody on $1 million bond. Family members and loved ones of Dr. Clark were present at the court proceedings, standing in silent solidarity for the woman they say was a light in so many lives.

Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts confirmed that Figueroa had recently been hired as a security guard at the college, though it’s unclear if he was actively working at the time of the shooting. The shocking act of workplace violence has stunned the campus and community alike.

Dr. Clark’s family described her as a beacon of warmth, energy, and purpose.

“Cameisha was the most compassionate, loving, and fiercely loyal person,” their statement continued. “She was a radiant, joyful, driven, and compassionate woman who touched countless lives across the country from her hometown of Atlanta, Georgia to Los Angeles. Her legacy is defined not by the manner of her death, but by the extraordinary way she lived.”

A proud three-time graduate of Clark Atlanta University, Dr. Clark earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2011, her Master of Social Work in 2013, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership in 2020. Her academic and professional journey was marked by her deep commitment to supporting and empowering students.

“She was a trailblazer and an inspiration,” the family said, “having recently been promoted to a dean at Spartan College. Cameisha uplifted everyone fortunate enough to cross her path. Her leadership, integrity, and deep sense of purpose helped shape the futures of countless students—from Clark Atlanta University to Spartan College. She believed in the potential of others even when they could not yet see it in themselves.”

Campus officials at Spartan College echoed the family’s grief and praised Dr. Clark’s contribution to the institution.

“We are deeply saddened and upset by what transpired,” said Spartan College Inglewood Campus President Chris Becker in a statement released Saturday. “Our thoughts are with our two staff members who are in medical care and their families during this time. Counseling services and support are being arranged for students and staff for the coming days.”

Clark’s impact extended well beyond the classroom. She was also remembered for her vibrant spirit as a cheerleader during her undergraduate years, her service to the community, and her commitment to empowering Black women through mentorship and education.

“She brought warmth, laughter, and grace into our lives every day,” her family added. “Her presence was a gift, and the void left behind is immeasurable.”

The Inglewood Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact local authorities.

Dr. Cameisha Clark’s tragic passing leaves behind not just a grieving family, but a heartbroken academic community—and a legacy that will continue to uplift generations of students to come.