Raven Bianca Gant, a 27-year-old woman from Minneapolis, MN, was tragically shot and killed on November 28, 2019. The incident occurred at a home on James Avenue North, where she had gone to retrieve clothes from the residence she previously shared with her ex-boyfriend. The shooting took place on Thanksgiving Day, and her 2-year-old daughter, J.J., was present at the scene. When police arrived, J.J.
directed them to her mother's body.
The suspect in this case is Randall Watkins, who was 41 years old at the time of the incident. Watkins, the father of Raven's daughter, was charged with one count of second-degree murder in connection with her death. According to police reports, Raven had moved out of Watkins' home prior to the incident due to an abusive relationship. On the day of the shooting, she returned to the house to collect her belongings when Watkins shot her in front of their daughter.
Raven's family described her as a loving and hardworking individual. She was an accounts manager at the Union Depot Hotel and was known for her sense of style and vibrant personality. Her mother, Lakecia Gant, and brother, Rhonald Gant III, expressed their grief and highlighted the lengths Raven went to protect Watkins, despite the abuse she endured. The family hopes that sharing their story will encourage others in similar situations to seek help and leave abusive relationships.
Randall Watkins was taken into custody shortly after the incident, and the Hennepin County Attorney's Office charged him with second-degree murder. The case underscores the devastating impact of domestic violence and the importance of support systems for victims.
