On March 5, 2023, 30-year-old Michael C. Bauchum was fatally shot during a domestic dispute at a Waffle House located on Estes Parkway in Longview, Texas. Emergency responders arrived at approximately 6:30 a.m. and found Bauchum critically injured. He was transported to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
The primary suspect, 37-year-old Rashandra Shynel Godfrey of Longview, was arrested at the scene and charged with murder.
According to police reports, the incident stemmed from a domestic dispute between Bauchum and Godfrey, who had been in a relationship from September 2022 until about two weeks before the shooting. The altercation reportedly began after Bauchum looked through Godfrey's phone, leading to a confrontation that ended with the fatal shooting.
Video footage from the Waffle House did not support Godfrey's claim of self-defense. In addition to the murder charge, Godfrey faced other charges related to a previous offense from October 2017. She was booked into the Gregg County Jail, with bonds totaling $52,500.
Michael Bauchum, known as "Mickey" to friends and family, was remembered as a kind-hearted and loving individual who never met a stranger. Born on April 18, 1991, in Longview, Texas, he graduated from Longview High School in 2010. He enjoyed spending time with his children, playing pool, and socializing with friends. At the time of his death, he was employed by ETR Commercial and Industrial Equipment Supplier and aspired to become a diesel engine mechanic.
Bauchum is survived by his wife, Destiny; his children, Elijah and Makayla; step-children, A'Niya, Earl, and Adrian; his mother, Yolanda; and siblings, LaDarian and Ashley. Funeral services were held on March 11, 2023, at the Willie Mae Craig Chapel in Longview, followed by interment at Lakeview Memorial Gardens.
