According to the victim’s distraught mother, University of Alabama basketball player Darius Miles fatally shot a 23-year-old mother of one because she had rejected him.
DeCarla Cotton shared a photo of her late daughter and her 5-year-old son, Kaine, with the caption, “Took my baby’s life because she wouldn’t talk to him” on Facebook.
Officials say that Jamea Jonae Harris was slain early on Sunday morning when Miles, 21, opened fire on the car she was riding in on “The Strip,” an area near the college.
After reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing many witnesses, police identified Miles and Michael Lynn Davis, both 20, as suspects in the shooting.
They have been accused of capital murder.
Cotton told AL.com, “She was a beautiful young woman who loved her family, especially her 5-year-old son Kaine.” She only wanted to spend the weekend with her University of Alabama-student cousin and her boyfriend.
Kennedi Henderson, cousin of Harris, described the dead woman as “a humble soul who was always a happy soul.”
She stated that Harris “kept the cousins together and pushed us to be the best versions of ourselves.” She was the nicest little cousin I could have asked for.”
Henderson continued, “My family and I are in complete disbelief that this has happened to her.” We only request prayer at this time.”
The unidentified driver of the car in which Harris was traveling informed authorities that he fired back in self-defense, striking one of the perpetrators.
“At this time, it appears that the shooting resulted from a minor argument between the victims and suspects after they encountered each other along the strip,” said Tuscaloosa police captain Jack Kennedy.
Cotton has created a GoFundMe site to seek money for the boy.
“She had a golden heart and was adored by many. It is impossible to convey how much she will be missed! I am grateful for everyone’s prayers and condolences, and I appreciate your willingness to assist in any way,” she added.