Breaking: 32nd Street Shooting - Makeba Lee & Cheetara Goldsmith Case Updates

23 May, 2025

What happens when a day of violence leaves a community reeling, its streets stained with tragedy and unanswered questions? The events of May 17, 2012, in West Louisville, Kentucky, serve as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence, leaving behind a legacy of grief, legal battles, and a community struggling to heal.

On that fateful day, the tranquility of 32nd Street and Greenwood Avenue was shattered by the sound of gunfire. As the echoes of shots reverberated through the air, people instinctively sought shelter, ducking behind cars as law enforcement officers drew their weapons. The initial chaos quickly gave way to the grim reality of a city grappling with the consequences of violence.

The primary focus of the day's events centered on two young women, Makeba Lee and Cheetara Goldsmith, whose lives became tragically intertwined amidst the turmoil. Makeba Lee, aged 24, became a victim of the violence, her life cut short in a series of events that began with a shootout on South 32nd Street. Cheetara Goldsmith, also 24, was later charged with her murder, adding another layer of complexity to the already devastating circumstances.

The events of May 17th were not isolated incidents. The day began with a quadruple shooting in the 1000 block of 32nd Street, claiming the lives of two men. Then, approximately 90 minutes later and one block to the south, more shots rang out. In the aftermath of the violence, the community was left to grapple with profound loss and a desperate yearning for answers. The families of the victims were plunged into grief, their lives forever altered by the events of that day. Funeral services for Makeba Lee were held, but the sense of closure was elusive, overshadowed by the ongoing legal proceedings and the lingering questions surrounding the incidents.

The following table provides a summary of key facts surrounding Makeba Lee's life, derived from available public information and reports. This is to provide clear information about her life and the tragedy that took place.

Category	Details
Full Name	Makeba Leshay Lee
Age at Death	24 years old
Date of Death	May 17, 2012
Location of Death	32nd Street and Greenwood Avenue, Louisville, Kentucky
Immediate Family	Son: Tyshon Mimms; Parents: Aja Nkrumah and Rodney Lee; Siblings: Nadikah Simmons and Dunyeh Washington
Relationship to Other Involved Parties	Girlfriend of Tyshon Mimms (boyfriend of Cheetara Goldsmith's boyfriend, Craig Bland Jr., who was killed in the initial shootout)
Cause of Death	Shot by Cheetara Goldsmith
Legal Proceedings	Cheetara Goldsmith charged with murder
Community Impact	Heightened attention to violence in West Louisville
Funeral Services	Held in the days following the shooting

For additional background information and related news coverage, consider consulting the following resources, which may offer further insights into the events and legal proceedings surrounding Makeba Lee's death: (Note: Replace with links to credible news outlets, local government sites, or court records where available.)

The events of May 17th also brought attention to the larger issues of violence and safety within West Louisville. As the community mourned the loss of Makeba Lee and the others who were impacted, calls for solutions to address the root causes of the violence intensified. These calls were not isolated to the immediate aftermath of the shootings; the community's leaders and residents actively sought to foster safer streets and a more promising future for the area.

The legal proceedings surrounding the events unfolded over time. Cheetara Goldsmith, the woman accused of killing Makeba Lee, was arrested and faced a court trial. These legal steps were a pivotal part of seeking justice for Makeba Lee. The family of Makeba Lee was hopeful that the legal system would provide answers and accountability. The case progressed through the court system, with all the complexities of legal arguments, evidence, and the pursuit of a fair verdict. The families of those affected needed that justice to find peace, but the legal journey can be prolonged, adding to the emotional burden.

The story of Makeba Lee is a testament to the human spirit's resilience in the face of extraordinary adversity. The lives of all those affected by the events of May 17, 2012, are a reminder of the importance of valuing every life, pursuing justice, and working together to forge a society where everyone has the opportunity to live in safety and dignity. The community's response to the violence, from the immediate response of emergency services to the later efforts to address the underlying causes of the violence, highlights the importance of resilience and community.

The events that unfolded on May 17, 2012, in Louisville serve as a reminder of the need for comprehensive solutions to address gun violence. By understanding the complex interplay of factors that contribute to violence, we can work towards creating safer communities for all. This effort requires the collaboration of community members, law enforcement, policymakers, and social service providers to address the root causes of violence and offer support to those who have been affected.

The shootings also prompted a review of existing public safety measures and led to discussions about community policing strategies, mental health services, and youth programs. The goal was to build a resilient community, focused on preventing future tragedies and giving resources to residents in need.

The legacy of May 17, 2012, is one of profound loss, resilience, and the enduring pursuit of justice. The memories of those whose lives were cut short on that tragic day continue to inspire efforts to create safer communities, while also underscoring the ongoing necessity of addressing the complex factors that contribute to violence. The stories of Makeba Lee, Cheetara Goldsmith, and all those involved serve as a powerful call to action. The fight for peace and security continues, as communities work to build a future where everyone is safe and has the chance to thrive.

The details of that day paint a picture of chaos and tragedy. Law enforcement quickly arrived on the scene, as they responded to a flurry of calls, and the community faced the reality of the violence that had occurred.

Beyond the immediate shock of the shootings, the day brought to light issues such as the rise in violence in the city and the effect of such crimes on a community. The families, friends, and neighbors had to grapple with the long-term repercussions of the violence, including mental health difficulties and emotional struggles. This highlighted the critical need for counseling services and support for those affected.

As the investigations continued, the authorities worked to piece together the events of that day and pinpoint those responsible. The investigation into the shooting and the resulting court proceedings provided a degree of accountability, yet also added to the community's sense of unease.

The West Louisville community found itself at the center of attention as the events were examined, the impact on the neighborhood was undeniable. The need for community healing and growth was more crucial than ever, as the community began the challenging path to healing. The community also demonstrated a strong dedication to seeking answers and creating an environment where such violence would not be repeated. The importance of neighborhood collaborations and supportive initiatives to build resilience in the face of adversity was highlighted.

The story of May 17th, 2012, is a stark reminder of the complex nature of violence and its profound impact on people and communities. It highlights the need for collaborative actions aimed at both immediate assistance and addressing the underlying causes of gun violence.

Louisville woman accused of killing Makeba Lee appears before judge

Details

Mother murdered in west Louisville shooting laid to rest

Details

Detail Author:

Name : Larry Hand
Username : justus.schuster
Email : allene.treutel@stanton.com
Birthdate : 1979-11-08
Address : 1943 Fritsch Streets Apt. 913 Amiramouth, MN 28510
Phone : 828-291-0734
Company : Gerlach-Sanford
Job : Crushing Grinding Machine Operator
Bio : Nihil sed fugit ipsum. Voluptas est maxime quo nihil in facilis. Voluptatem veritatis sit sapiente voluptate.

Socials

facebook:

url : https://facebook.com/kayden.schuppe
username : kayden.schuppe
bio : Doloribus esse cupiditate explicabo iste ut.
followers : 5973
following : 744

instagram:

url : https://instagram.com/kayden_real
username : kayden_real
bio : Neque delectus voluptatem quas eos earum. Aliquid sit alias omnis voluptatem.
followers : 1166
following : 2604

tiktok:

url : https://tiktok.com/@kayden_schuppe
username : kayden_schuppe
bio : Aspernatur ratione est eum necessitatibus repellat.
followers : 2439
following : 2791

linkedin:

url : https://linkedin.com/in/kschuppe
username : kschuppe
bio : Aliquid est odio aliquam ut.
followers : 4403
following : 2321

twitter:

url : https://twitter.com/kayden.schuppe
username : kayden.schuppe
bio : Velit modi facilis deleniti aut tempore minima. Est deserunt occaecati eum officiis possimus dolor. Quisquam et aspernatur eligendi.
followers : 3009
following : 2454