Sheffield mum identified after being shot dead outside West Street pub as family pay heartbreaking tribute
A young woman fatally shot outside of a bar in Sheffield, UK, has been identified as mother-of-one, Shanice Brookes.
According to South Yorkshire Police, the 30-year-old had been enjoying a night out on West Street in the city centre at around 2.45am on Monday morning, and had been outside One Four One when she died.
Investigating officers described Brookes as an 'innocent bystander' in a 'senseless shooting'.
"We attended the scene, and Shanice was treated by our officers and paramedics before being taken to the hospital, where she very sadly died," the team added in an official statement.
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Police were quick to arrest three people on suspicion of murder in relation to the incident. A 32-year-old woman and a 30-year-old man were held near Stockport, Greater Manchester, following their arrest, and still remain in custody.
Another 30-year-old man has since been released and is no longer being treated as a suspect.
Prior to her tragic passing, she'd worked for a charity in central Sheffield and was studying for a university degree.
Brookes' family have since paid tribute, describing her as 'truly one of a kind' in a gut-wrenching statement.
"She will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know and love her," her loved ones said, adding that she had the 'biggest heart and the kind of energy you could never forget'.
"She was a deeply loved daughter, granddaughter, niece, cousin, friend and godmother, as well as being an amazing mum to her son, who meant the world to her," they continued. "To her cousins, she was more like a sister – someone they could always turn to for love, laughter and support.
"Shanice was also due to graduate from university, a reflection of her determination, ambition and the bright future ahead of her.
"She could light up every room she walked into with her infectious laugh, beautiful soul and magical aura. Shanice made people feel loved, safe and valued simply by being herself."
Detective Chief Inspector Andy Knowles has since issued an appeal to the public for information on the incident.
"Shanice was a young woman who was in the prime of her life and was simply enjoying a night out in the city centre over the bank holiday weekend," he said in a press conference. "People often say innocent victims were in the wrong place at the wrong time, but Shanice was not in the wrong place at the wrong time – we should all be able to go on nights out and know that we will come home safely.
"This incident lays bare the devastation gun crimes cause within families and communities, and I want to send a clear message to those who witnessed the incident or have information on those involved."
South Yorkshire police yesterday (26 May) shared an image showing the location of the attack, and the vehicle from which they believe the bullet that ended Brookes' life was fired.
Knowles added: "If you saw what happened on Monday morning, or have information about who was involved, please do not stay silent.
"Shanice's family, including her young son, are now facing the heartbreaking reality that they will never see her again.
He concluded: "The reckless actions of others have taken her life away from her, and the sad reality is that any of us, or our loved ones, could have been the victim of this senseless incident.
"We are carrying out a complex and comprehensive investigation to secure justice for Shanice, but we need the public to come forward and tell us what they saw and what they know, so we can ensure no other family goes through the devastation Shanice’s family are experiencing right now."
Rhianna Benson