San Antonio’s East Side: Victims Identified as La Vontay Drummer-Simms and Devin Lavalais Amid Investigation into Fatal Shooting; Suspect Michael Moore Charged with Capital Murder”
San Antonio, TX – A Community Shaken by Early Morning Gun Violence
In the pre-dawn hours of Thanksgiving morning, a close-knit San Antonio community awoke to the devastating sound of gunfire in the 600 block of Potomac Street near Dignowty Hill. The tragic incident claimed the lives of two young men, 24-year-old La Vontay Drummer-Simms and 27-year-old Devin Lavalais, leaving their families and friends grappling with an immeasurable loss on what was meant to be a day of gratitude and togetherness.
The San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) responded swiftly to the scene after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting gunshots around 2:30 a.m. The chaotic aftermath unfolded as officers discovered the lifeless bodies of Drummer-Simms and Lavalais, along with two additional victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Both injured individuals, described as men in their 20s, were rushed to a nearby hospital, where they remain under medical care. Their conditions have not been disclosed, but authorities noted that their injuries were not immediately deemed life-threatening.
The Sequence of Events: A Sudden Turn to Violence
According to SAPD Chief William McManus, the victims were among a group of people who had gathered at the residence on Wednesday night. The gathering was reportedly a casual affair, with attendees socializing and enjoying the holiday atmosphere. However, the peace was shattered when one individual, later identified as 30-year-old Michael Moore, left the house and began firing indiscriminately as he exited.
“It’s still unclear what motivated this senseless act,” Chief McManus stated during a press briefing later that day. “We are piecing together witness statements and physical evidence to determine what led to such a horrific escalation.”
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic and terrifying, with partygoers scrambling for safety as bullets tore through the quiet East Side neighborhood. Neighbors reported hearing multiple gunshots, followed by screams and the sound of people fleeing.
Swift Action Leads to Arrest
Authorities acted quickly to apprehend Moore, who was detained a few blocks from the scene near East Houston Street and North New Braunfels Avenue. The suspect was reportedly still in possession of the firearm believed to have been used in the shooting. Investigators credited the rapid response of SAPD officers and tips from witnesses for the swift arrest.
Moore has been charged with capital murder of multiple persons, a charge that carries the possibility of the death penalty under Texas law, as well as two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon for the injuries sustained by the surviving victims.
The Victims: Promising Lives Cut Short
The Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the deceased as La Vontay Drummer-Simms and Devin Lavalais, both young men with promising futures. Drummer-Simms, described by family members as a charismatic and kind-hearted individual, had recently started a new job and was looking forward to building a stable life for himself. Lavalais, a father of two, was known for his dedication to his children and his infectious sense of humor.
“This was a senseless act that robbed us of two amazing people,” said a relative of Lavalais. “Devin was the glue that held our family together. It’s hard to believe he’s gone.”
The Investigation: Searching for Answers
As detectives work to unravel the motive behind the attack, they are focusing on potential conflicts or grievances that may have surfaced during the gathering. Chief McManus emphasized that there was no immediate evidence suggesting gang involvement or premeditated intent, but he cautioned that it was too early to rule out any possibilities.
Forensic teams have been meticulously combing the crime scene, collecting shell casings, analyzing ballistic evidence, and interviewing witnesses to reconstruct the sequence of events. A spokesperson for the SAPD stated that investigators are also reviewing surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses to gather additional clues.
A Community in Mourning
The tragic events have left the Dignowty Hill neighborhood reeling. Residents have expressed shock and grief over the violence that erupted in their otherwise peaceful community. A makeshift memorial with candles, flowers, and photos of the victims has been set up near the site of the shooting, serving as a somber reminder of the lives lost.
Local leaders and community activists have called for unity and support for the affected families. “We must come together to help these families heal and to ensure that this type of violence does not define our community,” said Pastor James Mitchell of a nearby church.
Gun Violence: A Persistent Issue
The Thanksgiving morning shooting is the latest in a string of violent incidents in San Antonio, underscoring the broader issue of gun violence in the city and across the nation. According to recent statistics, San Antonio has seen a slight uptick in firearm-related homicides in 2024, a trend that mirrors national data.
Community advocates are calling for renewed efforts to address the root causes of gun violence, including access to mental health resources, conflict resolution programs, and stricter firearm regulations.
The Legal Road Ahead
Michael Moore remains in custody at the Bexar County Jail, with no bond set due to the severity of the charges. His first court appearance is scheduled for early December, where prosecutors are expected to present preliminary evidence supporting the capital murder charges.
Legal experts anticipate that Moore’s defense team will focus on his mental state at the time of the shooting, a strategy commonly employed in cases involving seemingly unprovoked acts of violence. However, the weight of the evidence, including eyewitness accounts and forensic findings, is likely to play a pivotal role in the trial.
Call for Witnesses and Community Support
The SAPD has urged anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward. “Even the smallest detail could help us bring justice for the victims and their families,” said Chief McManus.
Local organizations have also rallied to support the families of Drummer-Simms and Lavalais, organizing fundraisers to cover funeral expenses and medical bills for the surviving victims.
Remembering La Vontay Drummer-Simms and Devin Lavalais
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on honoring the lives of La Vontay Drummer-Simms and Devin Lavalais. Both men leave behind a legacy of love and resilience, cherished by those who knew them.
“This tragedy reminds us of the fragility of life and the importance of holding our loved ones close,” said a family friend. “We’ll never forget La Vontay and Devin, and we’ll work tirelessly to ensure their memories live on.”
