CHARLESTON, SC – The Charleston Police Department has made three arrests in connection with the May 18, 2025, shooting and homicide at the Palmilla Apartments located at 1385 Ashley River Road in West Ashley.
Just before 1:00 a.m. that morning, officers patrolling nearby heard gunfire and quickly responded to the scene. They located three individuals with gunshot wounds. All three were transported to a local hospital, where one victim later died from their injuries.
Through the course of the investigation, detectives determined the shooting stemmed from an altercation involving individuals known to one another inside the apartment complex. Among those shot during the incident was Lucas Ward, who has now been arrested and charged.
The following individuals have been arrested:
- Lucas Ward (34, of Charleston) is charged with murder, possession of a firearm during the commission of a violent crime, and unlawful carrying of a firearm.
- A’Mariona Simmons (19, of Charleston) is charged with accessory after the fact of murder and conspiracy to violate controlled substance laws.
- Mario Simmons (39, of Charleston) is charged with conspiracy to violate controlled substance laws.
The investigation remains active. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Charleston Police Department at 843-720-2422 and request to speak with the on-duty Central Detective. Tips can also be submitted anonymously online at www.charleston-sc.gov/tips.
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Media Release
Release Date: May 23, 2025
Media Contact: Lieutenant A. Gibson
E-mail: cpdpublicinformationteam@charleston-sc.gov