Tynikkia Tyshelle Tanner, a 21-year-old resident of Jacksonville, Florida, was found dead in her apartment at Vista Landing, formerly known as Cleveland Arms, on October 6, 2018. Initially, her boyfriend, Dontonieo Davontez Veron Sapp-Denson, claimed that Tanner had shot herself in the head, suggesting it was a suicide. However, upon further investigation, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office determined that the circumstances surrounding her death pointed to homicide rather than suicide.
The Medical Examiner's Office corroborated this finding, indicating that the evidence did not support the claim of self-inflicted injury.
Sapp-Denson, who was 24 at the time, was subsequently charged with second-degree murder and evidence tampering. The couple had a child together, and it was revealed that Tanner had recently ended their relationship and was attempting to move on with her life. Neighbors and acquaintances of Tanner reported that Sapp-Denson had threatened her, stating that if he couldn't have her, no one else would. This information, combined with the physical evidence at the scene, led to Sapp-Denson's arrest.
Following the incident, Sapp-Denson was initially detained for a suspended license shortly after the shooting but was released the same night. He was arrested again at the end of October for failing to appear in court and was released the following day. His bond was set at $1.1 million, and his arraignment was scheduled for January 17. Sapp-Denson had a history of arrests, including charges of domestic battery, grand theft, and illegal possession of a concealed weapon.
The case highlighted issues of domestic violence, with local organizations offering support and resources for victims. The tragic death of Tynikkia Tanner underscored the dangers faced by individuals attempting to leave abusive relationships and the importance of community and legal support in such situations.
