News Summary
A double homicide occurred in Augusta, resulting in the deaths of Melissa Cui Domingo and her mother, Elizabeth Cui Domingo, during a custody exchange. The suspect, Hajir Talebzadeh, has been arrested and faces multiple charges, including murder. The incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding domestic violence, with the community mourning the tragic loss. Authorities are urging awareness and support for victims of domestic violence as investigations continue.
Augusta – A double homicide occurred on Sunday evening in the parking lot of a Best Buy store on Walton Way Extension, leading to the tragic deaths of two individuals, identified as Melissa Cui Domingo, 41, and her mother, Elizabeth Cui Domingo, 79, both from Evans. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that both victims succumbed to gunshot wounds.
The suspected shooter, Hajir Talebzadeh, 41, has been arrested and faces multiple charges, including murder and cruelty to children in the first degree. Talebzadeh is the ex-husband of Melissa Domingo and was reportedly injured during the incident. He was taken to Wellstar MCG Health Medical Center where he is listed in stable condition. Witness accounts and video evidence suggest that the shooting arose from a domestic dispute during a custody exchange.
Emergency services received 911 calls reporting the shooting at approximately 6:12 p.m. Law enforcement officials arrived on the scene within minutes, but the two victims were pronounced dead by 6:47 p.m. after being discovered in the parking lot with gunshot wounds. According to reports, a five-year-old child, the son of Melissa and Talebzadeh, witnessed the tragic event but was unharmed. The child is currently in the care of the Department of Family and Children Services.
The incident has raised significant concerns regarding domestic violence and its impact on families, especially children. The Richmond County Sheriff, Gino Brantley, expressed condolences for the child and emphasized the community’s responsibility to support victims of domestic violence.
Background information reveals that Melissa Domingo had previously encountered issues with her ex-husband. In a prior incident, she was granted immunity after shooting Talebzadeh in self-defense. Court records indicate that Melissa had been diagnosed with PTSD and displayed signs consistent with long-term abuse and control by Talebzadeh. This ongoing issue highlights the complexities surrounding domestic violence cases.
Following the tragedy, investigators have labeled the incident a “senseless tragedy” that has not only devastated the immediate family but also the broader community. Sheriff Brantley has urged residents to recognize the signs of domestic violence and to seek help, noting that such situations can escalate and have dire consequences.
As the community mourns the loss and grapples with the implications of this event, authorities continue to investigate the details surrounding the shooting, working to ensure that justice is served while providing support to those affected.
The suspect, Hajir Talebzadeh, is currently booked into the Charles B. Webster Detention Center and is expected to face trial regarding the charges against him. As the legal proceedings move forward, community leaders are pushing for increased awareness and resources directed at combating domestic violence and safeguarding vulnerable families.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Augusta VA Medical Center Enhances Mental Health Support
Man Arrested in Double Homicide During Custody Exchange
Domestic Dispute Leads to Double Homicide in Augusta
Man Arrested in Augusta Double Murder During Custody Exchange
Two Injured in Broad Street Shooting Investigation
Man Arrested for Double Murder Following Domestic Dispute
Augusta Domestic Dispute Results in Double Homicide
Additional Resources
- WRDW: Double Murder Court Findings
- 11Alive: Shooting at Best Buy Augusta
- WFXG: Best Buy Parking Lot Shooting
- Google Search: Domestic Violence Support Resources
- Wikipedia: Domestic Violence
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
