Devastated relatives of an innocent bystander shot dead outside a city centre bar sat ashen-faced as an inquest into her death was opened and adjourned. Mother-of-one Shanice Brookes, 30, suffered fatal gunshot injuries after being struck while standing outside a popular bar in Sheffield city centre shortly before 2:45am on May 25. Detectives have confirmed she was simply an innocent bystander when bullets were fired in her direction.
On Monday, Sheffield assistant coroner Rebecca Connell held a brief inquest opening hearing at the South Yorkshire city's Medico-Legal Centre. She told three members of Ms Brookes's family who attended: 'I cannot imagine how you are all feeling at this moment.' Ms Connell said: 'I am extremely sorry for your loss. I am sorry you are here today.'
Inquest Adjourned Pending Criminal Investigation
Opening the inquest, the coroner said Ms Brookes had been at the One Four One bar on West Street when an incident occurred that resulted in her receiving fatal injuries. She told the family that the inquest proceedings were being adjourned while the criminal investigation into the death is completed. Ms Connell said a decision will be taken at a later date on whether a full inquest hearing is necessary in this case.
Family's Tribute to Shanice Brookes
Ms Brookes, who left a 10-year-old son, worked as a volunteer for the Sheffield community charity Zest and was about to finish a degree at Sheffield College. In a statement issued after her death, her family said: 'She could light up every room she walked into with her infectious laugh, beautiful soul and magical aura. Shanice made people feel loved, safe and valued simply by being herself. She was truly one of a kind and she will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know and love her.'
In another statement, Zest said Ms Brookes was 'a truly beautiful soul who touched so many lives within our Zest family and wider community.'
Suspects Charged
Jemele Rhone, of Sheffield, is due to go on trial next year charged with murdering Ms Brookes. Rhone is also charged with possession of a handgun and possession of criminal property, namely £10,000. His co-accused, Deiryen Dyce, 32, of Ellesmere Road North, Sheffield, is charged with assisting an offender, possession of ammunition, possession of heroin, cocaine and cannabis with intent to supply, and possession of criminal property, namely £2,000.
