On the evening of May 25, 2012, Domonique Denell Ardister, a 29-year-old male, was fatally shot while sitting in his vehicle in the driveway of his home on Newark Avenue in Lansing, Michigan. Ardister was a father to three children, Kaniya, Kamren, and Domonique Jr. He was remembered by his family as a loving and protective individual, particularly when it came to his mother, Monica Blackwell. At the time of his death, he was enrolled in school, majoring in Psychology.
The investigation into Ardister's death has unfortunately not led to any arrests, and his murder is now considered a cold case. His mother has spoken publicly about her suspicions regarding who may have been responsible for her son's death, but without sufficient evidence, the case remains unsolved. The Lansing Police Department's Cold Case Unit continues to seek information from the public that could lead to the arrest and prosecution of the person or persons responsible for this senseless act of violence.
Domonique's mother, Monica Blackwell, has shared that her son was aware of a potential threat to his life and had even asked her for advice on what to do. His death has had a profound and lasting impact on his family, who remember him as a strong, smart, and loving young man who was excited about celebrating his mother's upcoming 50th birthday. A candlelight vigil was held for him at Letts Community Center, where around 100 people gathered to mourn his loss. The community continues to feel the loss of a man described as having a playful personality and a deep love for his family.