Myla Nicole Oaks, a 32-year-old woman from Kings Mountain, North Carolina, tragically lost her life on January 27, 2016. Myla was a loving mother, devoted wife, and precious daughter. She was the owner of Oaks Southern Charm and was known for her lively and down-to-earth personality. On the morning of her death, Myla was shot and killed near Mann Court while neighbors were waiting with their children for the local school bus. Her husband, Jeff Oaks, was also shot and critically injured in the incident. The couple had reportedly been in an ongoing dispute with a neighbor over the usage of right of way and property lines.
The suspect, Robert "Chad" Bridges, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder, attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, and discharging a weapon into an occupied vehicle. The investigation revealed that the conflict between the Oaks family and Bridges had been escalating for some time. On the day of the shooting, Jeff Oaks had blocked the road with his car, preventing Bridges from going to work. This led to a heated altercation, during which Bridges shot both Myla and Jeff. Their 12-year-old son witnessed the incident and managed to escape to the safety of the school bus.
In November 2018, Robert Bridges was found guilty of second-degree murder, attempted murder, and other related charges. He was sentenced to at least 38 years in prison. During the trial, it was revealed that Bridges had claimed self-defense, stating that he was afraid for his life due to the ongoing feud with the Oaks family. However, the jury found him guilty, and the judge sentenced him to 44 years in prison. Myla's family members, including her father, Manuel Ellis, and her grandmother, Debbie Brooke, addressed Bridges in court, expressing their grief and frustration over the loss of their loved one.
The tragic death of Myla Nicole Oaks and the subsequent trial of Robert Bridges highlighted the devastating impact of neighborhood disputes and the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully. Myla's legacy lives on through her sons, Jeffrey and Aaden Oaks, who now live with family members. The community continues to remember Myla as a loving and caring individual who touched the lives of many.
