An unsuspecting mother tragically lost her life in Sheffield, where she had intended to attend the Arsenal victory parade with her 10-year-old son this weekend, as shared by her friend and cousin.
Shanice Brookes, a 30-year-old mother of one, was fatally shot near the One Four One bar on West Street around 2:45 a.m. on bank holiday Monday. Authorities described her as an “innocent bystander,” and she passed away in the hospital subsequently.
Tyler-Jay Reid, Ms. Brookes’ cousin, and K-cee Cooper-Foster, her friend, paid a heartfelt tribute to the young mother. The cousin disclosed that the mother was all set to take her son to the Arsenal parade in London on Sunday, but now the boy will grow up without his mother.
Speaking on Good Morning Britain, Ms. Reid mentioned, “She’s so selfless, not a big football fan, but she was prioritizing her son and planning to take him to the Emirates. The excitement they both had for the event has now been shattered.”
Recounting their last moments together, the cousin said they were celebrating a birthday before the tragic incident occurred. Ms. Reid expressed, “She was just an innocent individual in the wrong place at the wrong time. This could happen to anyone, a daughter, a friend, anyone’s family, and we wouldn’t wish this upon anybody.”
In memory of Ms. Brookes, her cousin and friend initiated a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for her funeral expenses, with any surplus dedicated to her son’s future. They stated on the fundraiser, “Shan deserves a beautiful farewell after being taken from us too soon.”
Describing her as someone with a big heart and a vibrant spirit, the pair added, “Shanice touched many lives with her infectious humor and beautiful soul. She brightened every room she entered and was deeply loved by those fortunate enough to know her.”
On Friday, South Yorkshire Police announced the charging of Jemele Rhone, 30, for murder, possession of a firearm, and possession of criminal property. Deiryen Dyce, aged 32, faces charges of assisting an offender, possession of ammunition, possession of drugs with intent to supply, possession of drugs, and possession of criminal property. Both are in custody awaiting their appearance at Sheffield Magistrates’ Court.
The 30-year-old man initially arrested on suspicion of murder in Sheffield has been released as he is no longer considered a suspect.
Detective Chief Inspector Andy Knowles emphasized, “Shanice was an entirely innocent bystander, entitled to a safe night out in our city without fearing for her safety. Her family, especially her young son, now have to cope with the devastating loss of their cherished daughter, friend, and mother under tragic circumstances. Our sympathies are with them during this tough time.”
