A popular TikTok influencer known as Mama Tot is grappling with the aftermath of her son’s tragic murder, which occurred just one day before his 19th birthday. Randon Lee, 18, was fatally shot at a gas station in Mobile, Alabama, on June 24, 2022. The incident shocked the local community and drew national attention due to the circumstances surrounding his death.
In the days following Randon’s murder, Mama Tot, whose real name is Oilia Nichols, publicly expressed her grief and frustration through social media. She lamented the loss of her son, stating, “Someone made the decision to end my son’s life.” In her emotional post, she conveyed a sense of helplessness as the perpetrator remained free while her family mourned.
Investigations revealed that Randon was involved in selling narcotics, a fact that came as a surprise to his family. Surveillance footage from the gas station captured the moment of the shooting, showing Randon getting into his vehicle after interacting with the assailant. According to detectives, Randon was shot in the back, managed to drive away, and ultimately succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Following the murder, authorities identified Ruben Gully, 20, as the prime suspect. Gully turned himself in to police in August 2022, weeks after a warrant was issued for his arrest. He was subsequently held without bond as the investigation continued. Mama Tot expressed her conflicting emotions upon learning of Gully’s arrest, noting that both families were suffering as a result of the tragedy.
In August 2023, Gully was offered a plea deal by prosecutors that would have allowed him to plead guilty to manslaughter in exchange for a 20-year prison sentence. However, he rejected the offer, opting instead to proceed to trial. Prosecutors stated that they had consulted with Randon’s family before making the plea offer, emphasizing the importance of victim advocacy in the legal process.
As the case moves toward trial, scheduled for February 2026, significant issues have arisen, including the credibility of a key witness, a former investigator who has faced perjury charges. Gully’s defense team intends to leverage this point to challenge the prosecution’s case. The prosecution remains confident, asserting that they are prepared to present a strong case based on available evidence.
Mama Tot has continued to speak out about her son’s life and the circumstances leading to his death. In a recent TikTok video, she reflected on the challenges of parenting a young adult and expressed her struggle to comprehend Randon’s choices. She emphasized that, regardless of the decisions he made, no one deserved to lose their life in such a violent manner.
As the trial approaches, both the prosecution and defense are bracing for a legal battle that will likely garner significant public attention. The outcome will not only determine Gully’s fate but also serve as a poignant reminder of the impact of violence on families and communities.
