Tomika Lee Turner, a 36-year-old African American woman from Columbus, OH, tragically lost her life on October 16, 2019. She was remembered by friends and family as a kind-hearted individual who had a significant impact on her community. Turner was a mother to four children, aged 5, 13, 17, and 18, and was actively involved in community service through her initiative "Love is as Love does," which provided goods and food to those in need.
Turner's death was the result of a shooting incident that occurred on East 13th Avenue in Columbus. According to Columbus Police, her on-and-off boyfriend, 37-year-old Roshan Lamar Cumberlander, was identified as the suspect. Turner was reportedly trying to end the relationship at the time of her death. Cumberlander was charged with murder, but he fled the scene and was later apprehended.
The case drew significant attention, especially during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, as Turner's friends and family gathered for a candlelight vigil to honor her memory. The community mourned the loss of a beloved mother and friend, and Turner's family started a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral costs.
In the legal proceedings that followed, Cumberlander initially faced murder charges. However, he eventually entered a guilty plea to involuntary manslaughter, a first-degree felony, and was sentenced to a minimum of 20 years in prison. The judge also imposed an indefinite sentence length under the state's Reagan Tokes Act, meaning Cumberlander could serve additional time if deemed a continued threat to society.
Turner's family and friends continue to honor her legacy by advocating for domestic violence awareness and supporting those affected by similar situations. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by individuals attempting to leave abusive relationships and the importance of community support in such times.
