AUGUSTA, Ga. ()- A mother and grandmother of a 5-year-old child were killed over the weekend while a 5-year-old child was present.
While the child was left unharmed, the emotional damage is far worse.
“Speculation and blame were rampant on Facebook,” expressed Sheriff Eugene Brantley from the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office. “I urge our community to unite and set aside the bickering and some of the racially charged animosity.”
The shooting happened around 6 o’clock Sunday night at the Best Buy near Augusta Exchange.
Authorities report that after a domestic altercation, Melissa Domingo along with her 74-year-old mother, Elizabeth, were fatally shot by Melissa’s spouse, Hajir Talebzedah.
The Sheriff says the investigation points to the need for action.
“Domestic violence showcases a repetitive behavioral pattern, where victims often feel trapped in the relationship for a multitude of reasons,” Brantley explained.
But records show this isn’t the first time.
Back on New Year’s Eve in 2021, Domingo shot her husband in the head during another domestic encounter.
Initially facing an aggravated assault charge, the allegations were recently overturned and deemed self-defense following an acquittal at trial.
NewsChannel 6 is also learning Domingo formerly worked at Belair Dental Associates in Columbia County.
A sign and wreath are now on the front door, as the business is closed indefinitely.
On Facebook, the office shared: “We regret to inform you about the heartbreaking loss of one of our team members. This has profoundly impacted us, and as we reckon with this loss, we’ve decided to temporarily close. We aim to support each other and process this tragedy. We apologize for any disruption to your dental services during this period. Your understanding and support are appreciated as we work through this. We’ll update you about when we’ll resume normal activities.”
“Consider a child who witnessed his mother and grandmother being shot. That’s a trauma they will carry throughout their life,” stated Brantley.
If you are a victim, the Sheriff’s Office is encouraging you to use the hotline phone numbers for SafeHomes of Augusta and the Salvation Army of Augusta.
The hotline number for SafeHomes of Augusta is (706) 736-2499.
The Salvation Army of Augusta’s hotline is (706) 826-7933.
We also reached out to Domingo’s former attorney’s office for comment, and they declined.
