’We don’t have to worry anymore:’ Tiara McDaniel’s family reacts to suspect’s death

OAKLEAF, Fla. — The family of 33-year-old Tiara McDaniel speaks out for the first time after she was killed Monday morning in Oakleaf.

This comes after an Action News Jax source confirmed the man wanted in her death was shot and killed by Maryland police after they said he shot an officer.

Police said they were trying to make an arrest when Shawn Braddy shot an officer. They returned fire, and he died.

McDaniel’s family members said they’re relieved.

Carolyn Hunter, McDaniel’s aunt, said, “We don’t have to worry anymore. He ain’t coming for us.”

Tuesday night, family members said they received a call from the Clay County Sheriff’s Office with news that gave them a big sigh of relief.

McDaniel’s alleged killer and father to two of her children, Shawn Braddy, had been shot and killed by police in Maryland.

Shwana Thomas, McDaniel’s stepmother, said, “The one thing I can say is that we are relieved.”

McDaniel, better known as Sha Sha, had just bought a home in Oakleaf. Her family said McDaniel and Braddy were in an abusive relationship.

She had moved on, and her family believes Braddy took revenge.

The family said he shot this beloved mother of four inside her new home in front of eight kids on Monday morning.

Hunter said, “He was a cold-hearted murderer to do that in front of them while she was holding two of her children.”

The family said this couldn’t have happened to a more loving person. McDaniel was a big sister and mother whose family said could light up any room.

And she was a strong woman who would do anything for anyone.

Whitney Taylor, McDaniel’s sister, said, “My sister was the life of the party. She was the big sister. She was the leader. She was the one that always led us. She had the biggest heart ever.”

And that’s how her family will remember her.

Her aunt said, “We thank God for her life. We thank God for all the many people that she’s touched, that she’s cared for, and I just pray that people remember her for that, not for the tragedy.”

Her family also wants to get out an important message to those who might find themselves in an abusive relationship.

McDaniel’s grandmother, Monzell Cohen, said, “Please, please get help. It’s a hurt that never, ever goes away.”

There’s a 24/7 National Domestic Hotline anyone can call year-round. It’s 1-800-799-7233.

There are also area organizations, such as the Hubbard House. Their sole purpose is to help those in abusive relationships.

Cox Media Group