Danekua M. Bankston, a 28-year-old African American woman from Youngstown, OH, tragically passed away on February 8, 2019. She was shot multiple times by her ex-boyfriend, Kyle Rice, in her Oregon Avenue home while their three children were present. Danekua was on life support for several days before her family made the heart-wrenching decision to take her off life support.
Her death was ruled a homicide, and Rice was arrested and charged with attempted murder.
The case garnered significant attention in the community, as Danekua was described by her family as a loving mother and a talented beautician who had a heart of gold. Her ex-boyfriend, Kyle Rice, claimed that he acted in self-defense during a struggle over a gun, but the jury rejected his claims and found him guilty of aggravated murder and murder. In August 2021, Rice was sentenced to 28 years to life in prison for the killing of Danekua Bankston.
Danekua's family has since been dedicated to raising her three children and keeping her memory alive. The tragic loss of Danekua has left a lasting impact on her loved ones and the community, who continue to remember her for the kind and caring person she was.
