Tragedy at Woodlake Village: A Palm Bay Family Shattered, Mental Health Takes Center Stage

As the community mourns the loss of three lives, questions linger about the role of mental illness in a horrific act of violence.

The peace of a Saturday night in Palm Bay was shattered on January 20, 2024, when gunshots erupted at the Woodlake Village Apartments, leaving a family devastated and a community grappling with unimaginable loss. Three lives were tragically cut short - Lisa Suglam, 31, a loving mother; Angella Suglam, 60, a cherished grandmother; and Stephen Suglam, 79, a respected patriarch. Two others, Kamauri Curry, 15, and Gary Taylor, 59, were injured, with young Kamauri fighting for his life.

In the wake of this unspeakable tragedy, 26-year-old Ta’Shawn Taylor, a relative of the victims, was arrested and charged with three counts of first-degree premeditated murder and two counts of attempted first-degree premeditated murder. As the community reels from the shock and grief, the case has taken an unexpected turn, with Taylor's mental competency to stand trial now a central question.

Striking a balance between justice and competency.

A Family Torn Apart:

The Suglam family, known for their warmth and close-knit bond, is now facing a nightmare beyond comprehension. Lisa, a devoted mother, was known for her infectious laugh and her dedication to her children. Angella, a beloved grandmother, was the heart of the family, always there to offer a helping hand and a warm embrace. Stephen, a pillar of strength and wisdom, was a source of guidance and love for his entire family.

The impact of their loss extends far beyond the walls of their apartment, reverberating through the Woodlake Village community and the city of Palm Bay as a whole. Neighbors and friends are struggling to come to terms with the violence that has shaken their sense of safety and peace.

“It’s just heartbreaking,” shared a neighbor who wished to remain anonymous. “They were such a kind family, always willing to help out. I can’t believe they’re gone.”

Mental Health in the Spotlight:

As the legal process unfolds, the focus has shifted to Ta'Shawn Taylor’s mental state and his ability to understand the charges against him. In Florida, a defendant must be deemed “competent to stand trial” to ensure a fair legal process. This means they must possess the mental capacity to understand the charges, assist their attorney in their defense, and make rational decisions related to their case.

Taylor has already undergone two competency evaluations. The first, stemming from a prior arrest in 2019, resulted in him being found incompetent. The charges in that case were ultimately dropped. Following the 2024 shooting, the court ordered a second competency evaluation, the results of which are currently pending.

A History of Struggle:

Court records reveal that Ta'Shawn Taylor has a documented history of mental health challenges. His 2019 arrest for Resisting Arrest and Petit Theft led to a competency evaluation and a finding that he was not fit to stand trial at that time. This previous case also revealed his involvement with Circles of Care, a behavioral health organization in Brevard County, indicating he has been receiving mental health services for some time.

Seeking Answers, Pursuing Justice:

The court is now tasked with determining Taylor's competency based on the recent evaluations and any other relevant evidence. If he is deemed incompetent, he will likely be ordered to receive treatment in an effort to restore his competency. It's crucial to understand that a finding of incompetency does not mean the case is over. Under Florida law, if his competency is restored at any point in the future, he could still face trial for the 2024 charges.

This case presents a difficult challenge for the legal system, as it seeks to balance the pursuit of justice for the victims with the complexities of mental health. It raises important questions about how to address the needs of individuals struggling with mental illness while also holding them accountable for their actions.

Moving Forward as a Community:

The tragedy at Woodlake Village has left a profound scar on the community, and the healing process will be long and difficult. As the legal proceedings continue, it's essential to offer ongoing support to the victims' families, the surviving victims, and the community as a whole.

The case also highlights the importance of mental health awareness and access to quality services. Seeking help for mental health challenges is a sign of strength, and early intervention can be crucial in preventing tragedies.

The Palm Bayer will continue to provide updates on this case and address the critical issue of mental health in our community. A hearing regarding Taylor's competency is scheduled for June 3, 2024, and we will be closely following the proceedings.

Resources for Mental Health Support:

• 911 Will Find You Help!

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988

We encourage anyone struggling with mental health challenges to reach out for help. You are not alone!

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