Woman shot dead outside Sheffield bar had ‘biggest heart’, say family | UK news
The family of an innocent woman who was fatally shot outside a pub in Sheffield city center at the weekend have paid tribute to her.
South Yorkshire police on Wednesday identified the victim as charity worker Shanice Brookes, 30. His family described Brookes, who lives in Sheffield, as “one of a kind” with “the biggest heart” and “energy you’ll never forget”.
As well as working for a local charity, Brookes was a mother of a son and completing her university education.
Police said he was “senselessly shot during an incident in which he was an innocent bystander” while outside the One Four One bar shortly before 2.45am on Monday.
Brookes was treated at the scene by police and paramedics before being taken to hospital, where he died.
Her family said at the memorial: “Shanice had the biggest heart and the kind of energy you will never forget. She was a much-loved daughter, granddaughter, niece, cousin, friend and godmother, as well as a wonderful mother to her son and meant the world to him. “To her cousins, she was more like a sister, someone they could always turn to for love, laughter and support.
“Shanice would also graduate from university, a reflection of her determination, ambition and the bright future ahead of her.
“She could light up any room she walked into with her infectious laugh, beautiful spirit, and magical aura. Shanice made people feel loved, safe, and valued just by being who she was. She was truly one of a kind and will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know and love her.”
Police asked anyone who saw the incident to come forward. They released a photo of a vehicle they believe was involved in the incident.
DCI Andy Knowles, of South Yorkshire Police, said: “Shanice was a young woman in the prime of her life who was enjoying a night out in the city over the bank holiday weekend.
“People often say innocent victims were just in the wrong place at the wrong time, but Shanice wasn’t in the wrong place at the wrong time; we should all be able to go out at night and know we’ll come home safe.
“This incident clearly reveals the devastating causes of gun crime within families and communities, and I want to send a clear message to anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those involved.” He appealed to people with knowledge: “Please do not remain silent.”
He added: “Shanice’s family, including her young son, are now faced with the reality that they will never see her again. The reckless actions of others took her life away and the sad truth is that any of us or our loved ones could have been the victim of this senseless event.”
Following the shooting, a 30-year-old man and a 32-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of murder near Stockport. Police said they remained in custody. Police officers were given additional time until Thursday to question them.
