A double homicide on Friday has left the DeSoto County community in shock as two women, including Tanika Summers, were fatally shot in what law enforcement has confirmed as a domestic violence incident.
Tanika Summers, just days away from moving into her new Habitat for Humanity home, was found dead Friday morning at an Arcadia apartment complex. Neighbors reported hearing gunshots early that day, and responding officers discovered Summers with multiple gunshot wounds. Friends and family, devastated by the loss, remember Tanika as a vibrant, joyous woman full of life and excitement for her future.
“She was so full of life and smiles… so happy,” said Jennifer Bowser, executive director of Arcadia-DeSoto County Habitat for Humanity. Tanika had been eagerly preparing for the new chapter in her life, even laying fresh sod at her new home. Sadly, she will never live there, but her memory will be honored there instead. Habitat for Humanity has scheduled a memorial service for Tanika at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday at the home where she had planned to start anew.
Authorities have charged 45-year-old Eric Devon Robinson with the killings. Police report that Robinson opened fire at the apartment complex. Court records show that Tanika had previously sought a restraining order against Robinson for domestic violence in September. Neighbors described the scene as chaotic, with Robinson “sporadically shooting,” according to witness Damien Brown.
A second victim, 77-year-old Barbara Bates, was also killed. Authorities have not confirmed any connection between Bates and Tanika.
As the community comes together to mourn, the tragic events underscore the ongoing crisis of domestic violence. The investigation continues, and Robinson now faces two counts of first-degree murder. Tanika’s loved ones are left to honor her memory and rally for justice.
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