Photo: FHM/Getty Images
Cassandra Sims, a 29-year-old daycare owner, was shot and killed by her boyfriend, Deandre Martin, before taking his own life. Harrowingly, Sims’ young son, Royal, was present during the ordeal, and he marked his 4th birthday less than a week after the tragedy.
FOX6 News Milwaukee reports that the situation unfolded on Aug. 11 in Racine, Wisconsin, and it left a heavy mark on both the family and the surrounding community.
Authorities note that her son was inside the house at the time, and he ran to a neighbor for help.
Jerelle Williams, Royal’s father, told the publication, “She is going to be missed. He is definitely going to miss her.” He also pointed out that the signs of domestic violence often go unnoticed until it’s too late.
“There’s signs, but we never see them from the outside. It can be silent cries for help, and we don’t realize it until a mother leaves a child. It’s heartbreaking to repeat what he said, but he seen that. It’s something he can never get rid of it.”
Jori Chambers, co-executive director of Racine’s Women’s Resource Center, called the situation “heartbreaking because it doesn’t need to happen.”
“There’s services here like us to get people out of that situation and keep them safe.”
Sims’ sister, Tori Bender, similarly shared, “Don’t sit in silence. Cassandra sat in silence.”
Cassandra Sims’ loved ones set up a GoFundMe to help cover funeral costs, which you can access here.
Editor’s Note: The Shade Room has not independently verified this fundraiser, donations are made at your own assessment and risk.
While discussing the case, it’s important to note that Royal commemorated his 4th birthday just a few days after losing his mother.
Celebrating his son with a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles-themed party, Royal’s father declared, “I’m going to smile for him today.”
After coming thru for her nephew, Bender noted, “A week later, all we can do is get him through it.”
We send our heartfelt prayers and condolences to Cassandra Sims’ loved ones.
