Shyla Cummings’ parents say she was killed during an act of domestic violence outside.
STONECREST, Ga. — The family of 25-year-old Shyla Cummings says she was preparing for a new chapter in life before her death — one that included starting nursing school in August and raising her 7-month-old daughter, Sariyah.
According to the DeKalb County Police Department, Cummings was shot and killed by Isiah Tarver outside the Publix on Panola Road last week.
According to her family, Cummings and Isiah Tarver had been dating on and off for several years. They also say Sariyah was inside the car when Cummings was killed.
“Keep our family strong, all mighty God,” prayed Shyla’s dad, Roston Cummings.
Now, loved ones say, Sariyah will grow up without her mother, but they believe she will always carry a piece of Shyla with her.
“Her daughter is almost like Shyla 25 years ago. Same exact way. Adorable. Beautiful,” Roston said.
Roston and Shameeka Cummings say their daughter was killed as a result of domestic violence. They described Shyla as a loving mother and a young woman working toward her future.
“She was in the peak of her life, you know? Striving. She was the best. That was like my vacation partner and everything,” Shameeka said.
The family says Shyla loved being a new mother.
“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.”
Her father says, despite her independence, Shyla was still very much a “daddy’s girl.”
“She was my twin. Everything was just like me,” Roston said. “Her mother used to say me and her would get on her nerves.”
Now, the couple hopes other parents pay close attention if they believe their child may be experiencing domestic violence.
“Just be involved and pay attention and just be there for your child. That’s the best you can do,” Shameeka said.
Roston added, “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.”
Authorities say Tarver is facing a malice murder charge and is being held in the DeKalb County Jail.
