Shyla Cummings: Mother Killed in Front of Her Baby Outside Grocery Store
Shyla Cummings was a vibrant 25-year-old mother preparing for an exciting new chapter. She was set to begin nursing school in August and was devoted to raising her 7-month-old daughter, Sariyah. Tragically, her life was cut short last week in an act of domestic violence outside the Publix on Panola Road.
According to police and family accounts, the Shyla was shot on the evening of May 6 (or around that date, last week relative to the reports). Shyla was in her car with her 7-month-old daughter, Sariyah, inside when Tarver approached and shot her. She died at the scene from her injuries.
Tarver, 23, then turned the gun on himself, suffering a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was taken to the hospital in stable condition and has been charged with malice murder. He is being held in the DeKalb County Jail.
The family has described the incident as an act of domestic violence. Shyla and Tarver had an on-and-off relationship for several years.
Shyla's family remembers her as a loving, independent young woman full of promise and joy. Her mother, Shameeka Cummings, described her as someone at the peak of her life—striving, adventurous, and the best companion. "She was the best. That was like my vacation partner and everything," Shameeka said.Shyla cherished motherhood. After wishing for a girl, she welcomed Sariyah and embraced the role with excellence.
Her family says the baby brought out even greater strength in her, helping her grow more independent and responsible. "She was an excellent mom," Shameeka shared.
Her father, Roston Cummings, called Shyla his "twin." "Everything was just like me," he said with a smile, noting how they sometimes playfully got on her mother's nerves. He prayed for strength for the family as they face this unimaginable loss.
Now, little Sariyah will grow up without her mother by her side. Yet her family sees Shyla's spirit living on in her. "Her daughter is almost like Shyla 25 years ago. Same exact way. Adorable. Beautiful," Roston said.
Shyla's parents are urging other families to stay closely involved in their children's lives, especially if they suspect domestic violence. "Just be involved and pay attention and just be there for your child," Shameeka advised. Roston added the importance of knowing what’s happening in their day-to-day and private lives.
Shyla Cummings is remembered as a beautiful soul—a dedicated mother, a aspiring nurse, and a beloved daughter whose light continues to shine through her family and her little girl. Her loved ones are left honoring her memory while supporting Sariyah in the years ahead.
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