Tarissa Sanders, a 38-year-old woman from Lima, Ohio, tragically passed away on June 3, 2020. She was born on March 29, 1982, to Crawford Foster and Diana L. Ross. Tarissa was married to Charles Sanders, who also died on the same day. She was a homemaker and is remembered fondly by her family, including her son Donnez Denson, daughters Daeyenna Ross and Ryasia Ross, and her grandchild Nevaeh Ross.
Tarissa Sanders' death was the result of a double murder.
Michelle Alves, 31, was charged with the shooting deaths of both Tarissa and Charles Sanders. According to police testimony, the incident occurred over a stolen gun. Alves confronted Charles Sanders about the missing gun, and after a heated exchange, she shot Charles once in the head and Tarissa three times, leading to their deaths. Alves and her boyfriend, Clinton Owens Jr., were arrested as persons of interest in the case. Owens waived his right to a preliminary hearing, while Alves faced a grand jury and was charged with the murders.
The trial for Michelle Alves began in September 2021. During the trial, witnesses testified about the events leading up to the shooting, including a cookout at Alves' residence the night before. Alves was found guilty on both counts of murder and faces 15 years to life in prison if convicted.
The tragic loss of Tarissa Sanders has left a lasting impact on her family and the community of Lima, Ohio.
