By: Richard L. Smith
Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes has announced a significant development in a case that has gripped the community.
Donqua Thomas, a 33-year-old resident of Paterson, has been sentenced to an aggregate term of Life Imprisonment by the Honorable Justine A. Niccollai, J.S.C., for his involvement in the shooting death of Remy Lee on October 29, 2020.
During a harrowing jury trial, the State presented compelling evidence surrounding the tragic incident that unfolded on that fateful day.
On Thursday, October 29, 2020, at approximately 1:37 p.m., Donqua Thomas allegedly shot the victim, Remy Lee, four times in the parking lot outside 5 Christina Place in Paterson.
What makes this tragedy even more heart-wrenching is that the victim was nine months pregnant with the defendant's child.
Eyewitnesses in the vicinity rushed to the victim's side immediately after the shooting, including the victim's mother.
They reportedly heard the victim identify Donqua Thomas as the person responsible for the gunshot wounds.
Following the shooting, the victim was swiftly transported to Saint Joseph's University Medical Center, where, despite the best efforts of medical professionals, she eventually succumbed to her injuries and tragically lost her life.
However, there was a glimmer of hope amid the tragedy, as the victim's child was successfully delivered and survived.
The subsequent police investigation shed light on the disturbing details of the incident.
It was revealed that Donqua Thomas had parked his vehicle in the parking lot outside the victim's apartment, waiting patiently for over an hour and a half before the victim arrived.
Tragically, when the victim exited her vehicle, she was allegedly shot at by the defendant from inside his car, after which he fled the area.
On June 21, 2023, the conclusion of Donqua Thomas's trial marked a turning point in the pursuit of justice.
The jury found him guilty of multiple charges, including murder, unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and certain persons not to possess firearms.
This sentencing serves as a solemn reminder of the profound impact of such heinous acts on individuals and communities.
Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes extends her gratitude to all those involved in the investigation and prosecution of this case.
While a measure of justice has been served, the scars left by this tragic incident will forever remind us of the importance of community safety and support for victims' families.