Stonecrest, Georgia — A Georgia family is grieving the devastating loss of 25-year-old Shyla Cummings, a young mother whose life was tragically cut short outside a Publix supermarket in Stonecrest last week.
Loved ones say Shyla was preparing for a bright future that included raising her baby daughter and beginning nursing school later this year before tragedy struck.
Young Mother Killed Outside Publix
According to the DeKalb County Police Department, Shyla Cummings was shot and killed outside the Publix on Panola Road.
Authorities identified the suspect as Isiah Tarver, who family members say had been in an on-and-off relationship with Cummings for several years.
The tragedy became even more heartbreaking after relatives revealed that Shyla’s 7-month-old daughter, Sariyah, was reportedly inside the vehicle when the shooting happened.
Police say Tarver has since been charged with malice murder and is currently being held in the DeKalb County Jail.
Family Remembers Shyla as Loving and Ambitious
As family members struggle to process the loss, they described Shyla as a caring mother, devoted daughter, and determined young woman focused on building a better future.
“She was in the peak of her life, you know? Striving. She was the best. That was like my vacation partner and everything,” her mother, Shameeka Cummings, said.
Relatives shared that Shyla was preparing to begin nursing school in August, a major step toward achieving her career goals.
Her parents said becoming a mother had changed her life in meaningful ways and made her even more focused and responsible.
“Oh, she wanted a girl, and she got her wish. She was an excellent mom,” Shameeka said. “I think Sariyah came and even changed her and gave her, and she became more independent, and she became more responsible.”
“She Was My Twin,” Father Says
Shyla’s father, Roston Cummings, became emotional while speaking about the special bond he shared with his daughter.
“She was my twin. Everything was just like me,” Roston said. “Her mother used to say me and her would get on her nerves.”
The grieving father also reflected on how much joy Shyla brought to the family and how painful it is knowing her daughter will now grow up without her mother.
“Her daughter is almost like Shyla 25 years ago. Same exact way. Adorable. Beautiful,” Roston said.
The family also joined together in prayer while mourning the unimaginable loss.
“Keep our family strong, all mighty God,” prayed Shyla’s dad, Roston Cummings.
Family Speaks Out About Domestic Violence
Shyla’s parents believe the tragedy stemmed from domestic violence and are now urging other families to pay close attention to signs that a loved one may be struggling in a dangerous relationship.
“Just be involved and pay attention and just be there for your child. That’s the best you can do,” Shameeka said.
Roston admitted that he often tried to respect his daughter’s privacy but now wishes he had looked deeper into her personal struggles.
“Just always find out what’s going on in their day-to-day life. Their private life. That’s something I didn’t want to get involved in because it’s her private life.”
Community Mourning Another Tragic Loss
The heartbreaking case has shaken the Stonecrest community and renewed conversations surrounding domestic violence awareness and prevention.
Friends, relatives, and community members continue remembering Shyla as a “beautiful soul” whose life ended far too soon.
As the legal process moves forward, her loved ones say their main focus now is supporting baby Sariyah and keeping Shyla’s memory alive.
What are your thoughts on this heartbreaking case and the growing need for domestic violence awareness? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
