The family of a woman who was an innocent bystander when she was fatally shot outside a bar in Sheffield city centre over the bank holiday weekend have paid tribute to her, describing her as 'one of a kind' with the 'biggest heart.'
Victim Identified as Charity Worker and Mother
South Yorkshire Police on Wednesday named the victim as Shanice Brookes, a 30-year-old charity worker who lived in Sheffield. In addition to her work for a local charity, Brookes was the mother of a young boy and was completing a university degree, which she was due to graduate from.
Incident Details
Brookes was outside the One Four One bar shortly before 2:45 am on Monday when, according to police, she was 'senselessly shot during an incident to which she was simply an innocent bystander.' She was treated at the scene by police and paramedics before being taken to hospital, where she later died.
Family Tribute
In a heartfelt tribute, her family said: 'Shanice 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. 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 in to with her infectious laugh, beautiful soul and magical aura. Shanice made people feel loved, safe and valued simply by being herself. She was truly one of a kind and she will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know and love her.'
Police Appeal and Arrests
Police have urged anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward and have released an image of a vehicle believed to be involved. DCI Andy Knowles of South Yorkshire Police said: '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.'
'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.' He added: 'This incident lays bare the devastation gun crime causes within families and communities and I want to send a clear message to those who witnessed the incident or have information on those involved: please do not stay silent.'
A 30-year-old man and a 32-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of murder near Stockport after the shooting and remain in custody. Officers have been granted additional time to question them until Thursday.
