Arrest Made in Fatal Hillside Community Shooting; Domestic Violence Investigation Ongoing

Monroe County, AL (BuzzReport) — Authorities have made an arrest in connection with a deadly shooting that has shaken the Hillside community, bringing a tragic domestic violence case into sharp focus.

Tom Boatwright confirmed that 40-year-old Latoya Lashelle Lett was taken into custody on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, by investigators with the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. Lett had been sought for questioning prior to her arrest and now faces a charge of murder in the death of Ronald Thomas.

According to investigators, the fatal incident unfolded on Sunday, April 26, during what authorities describe as a domestic violence-related altercation outside Thomas’s residence in the Hillside community. Officials say Thomas was shot in the neck, a wound that ultimately proved fatal.

Sheriff Boatwright called the case “a tragic situation for everyone involved,” underscoring the emotional toll such incidents have on families and the broader community. He urged residents to keep those affected in their thoughts as the legal process moves forward.

While the arrest marks a significant development, investigators emphasize that the case is far from closed. Detectives continue to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and piece together the events leading up to the deadly confrontation.

Authorities are asking anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation by contacting the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.