OAKLAND, California — On March 2, 2025, just 13 days after giving birth to twin girls, 19-year-old mother Davonye Cummings lost her life in a shocking act of violence. Her boyfriend, 32-year-old Terrence Miles from Alameda, has been charged with murder following the shooting that occurred inside an apartment on 74th Avenue in East Oakland. According to police reports, Miles shot Davonye in the neck, and her body was discovered inside the home. In a deeply troubling turn of events, Miles reportedly called his mother after the incident, saying, “Mom help! I shot her… I didn’t mean to.” However, instead of immediately contacting authorities, Miles’ mother allegedly went to the apartment, not to check on her son or Davonye, but to remove the newborn twin girls from the scene. She is also accused of taking the gun used in the shooting before eventually calling 911. This disturbing case has not only led to the arrest of Miles but also his mother, who now faces charges herself.

A Tragic Event: The Details of the Shooting

The fatal shooting of Davonye Cummings occurred on the morning of March 2, 2025, in East Oakland, a neighborhood known for its close-knit community but also for its struggles with violence and crime. Davonye had given birth to twin daughters just over a week before the tragic incident, a time that should have been filled with joy and hope for the future. Instead, her life was violently cut short inside her own home.

According to the police, the shooting took place inside an apartment on 74th Avenue, a residential area in East Oakland. At around 8:00 a.m. that morning, authorities believe Terrence Miles shot Davonye in the neck. The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear, but court documents suggest that Miles’ actions were not premeditated. However, the outcome was devastating for Davonye, who was found lifeless at the scene.

Miles, who was still inside the apartment after the shooting, allegedly called his mother for help. In a disturbing twist, Miles reportedly told her, “Mom help! I shot her… I didn’t mean to.” This call marked the beginning of a series of actions that would delay the arrival of emergency responders and further complicate the situation. Instead of immediately contacting 911, Miles’ mother allegedly took matters into her own hands, going to the apartment to check on her son and the situation. Shockingly, she is accused of removing the twin baby girls from the apartment, taking the gun used in the shooting, and only then calling the police.

By the time law enforcement arrived, it was too late for Davonye. She had already succumbed to the gunshot wound, and the apartment was eerily quiet, with the only remaining evidence being the presence of her newborn twins, who were thankfully unharmed.

The Aftermath: Arrests and Legal Charges

The tragic shooting of Davonye Cummings set off a wave of shock and outrage in the community, with many struggling to comprehend how a young mother could lose her life so suddenly and violently. Authorities quickly moved to arrest Terrence Miles, who was taken into custody that same day. Miles has since been charged with murder, domestic violence, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. The charges are particularly concerning, given Miles’ extensive criminal history.

Court records show that Miles has a history of five prior felony charges, which raises questions about how he was able to possess a gun legally. As a convicted felon, Miles was not permitted to have access to firearms under California law. This fact has further compounded the severity of the charges against him, as it suggests a disregard for both the law and human life.

Miles is currently being held in Santa Rita Jail in Dublin, California, awaiting further legal proceedings. His arrest has brought attention to the issue of domestic violence and gun access in the state of California, where incidents like this continue to highlight the tragic consequences of toxic relationships and easy access to firearms.

In addition to Miles, his mother was also arrested and charged in connection with the incident. She is accused of tampering with evidence, aiding a felon, and obstructing justice by removing the gun and taking the newborn twins away from the scene before contacting the authorities. The involvement of Miles’ mother has added an unsettling layer to this case, as it raises questions about her role in the events that led to Davonye’s death and her failure to immediately call for help.

Both Miles and his mother are facing serious legal consequences, but the emotional toll of this tragedy has rippled through the family, the community, and beyond.

Domestic Violence: A Complex and Hidden Crisis

The shooting of Davonye Cummings is a tragic example of the far-reaching effects of domestic violence. While details of the relationship between Davonye and Terrence Miles have yet to be fully revealed, it is clear that the violence that took place on March 2 was not an isolated incident. Domestic violence remains a pervasive issue in the United States, particularly in situations where power dynamics, controlling behaviors, and unresolved conflicts fuel dangerous actions.

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), nearly 1 in 4 women in the United States will experience severe physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime. Moreover, nearly half of all women who are murdered in the U.S. are killed by intimate partners. These statistics paint a grim picture of the prevalence of domestic violence and its deadly consequences, which are all too often hidden behind closed doors.

In the case of Davonye and Miles, the exact nature of their relationship and the events leading up to the shooting remain unclear. However, this tragedy highlights the broader societal issue of domestic violence, which can escalate rapidly when the victim is unable to escape or seek help. The involvement of Miles’ mother in attempting to conceal the crime further complicates the situation, as it suggests a level of enabling behavior that is all too common in abusive households.

Many experts argue that domestic violence cases often go unnoticed or unreported until it is too late. Early intervention, increased public awareness, and better access to support systems for victims of abuse are critical steps in addressing this epidemic. Additionally, efforts to strengthen laws surrounding gun control, particularly in the context of domestic violence, may help prevent tragedies like the one that took Davonye’s life.

The Impact on the Twin Girls: The Unseen Victims

Perhaps the most heart-wrenching aspect of this case is the fate of Davonye’s twin baby girls, who were just 13 days old at the time of their mother’s death. Infants like these are entirely dependent on their caregivers for survival, and the loss of their mother at such a young age leaves them vulnerable to the trauma of growing up without the nurturing support of their biological mother.

As of now, the twin girls have been placed in the care of other family members, but the emotional and psychological impact of losing their mother in such a violent manner will undoubtedly be felt throughout their lives. Research has shown that children who witness or experience violence in the home, particularly at a young age, are at greater risk for developing emotional and behavioral issues. These children may face challenges with attachment, trust, and even physical health, as the trauma experienced during the early years can have lasting effects on their development.

The twins’ future, although uncertain, will be shaped by the trauma they experienced as newborns. They will need a supportive and loving environment to heal from the emotional scars left by the violent death of their mother. However, the loss of a parent—particularly a mother—is a pain that may linger throughout their lives, affecting their sense of security and their understanding of relationships.

The Role of the Community: Responses to the Tragedy

The murder of Davonye Cummings has had a profound effect on the community of East Oakland and beyond. As news of the shooting spread, local residents, family members, and activists expressed their grief and outrage over the loss of such a young life. Social media posts, community vigils, and public outcries have all sought to raise awareness about the dangers of domestic violence and the importance of standing up against it.

In the wake of this tragedy, community leaders have called for increased efforts to address domestic violence in Oakland and other urban areas. Advocates for women’s rights and victims of abuse are urging lawmakers to take a stronger stance on protecting women and children from violent relationships. This incident has sparked renewed discussions about the need for improved support systems for victims, including better access to shelters, counseling, and legal assistance.

Additionally, the involvement of Miles’ mother in attempting to cover up the crime has added to the calls for greater accountability within families and communities. Experts suggest that enabling behaviors, like those allegedly exhibited by Miles’ mother, can perpetuate cycles of abuse and hinder the ability of victims to seek help. Family dynamics play a crucial role in perpetuating or breaking the cycle of domestic violence, and this case serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and intervention at every level.

Legal Proceedings: The Road to Justice

As Terrence Miles and his mother face charges related to this crime, the legal process will unfold over the coming months. Miles faces serious charges of murder, domestic violence, and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The legal implications of these charges are severe, and if convicted, Miles could face significant prison time. The trial will likely bring further attention to the issue of domestic violence and the role of gun violence in these situations.

The community, and especially Davonye’s family, are hoping for justice for her death. While the legal proceedings continue, the emotional wounds left by this crime will take much longer to heal. The family has expressed their desire to honor Davonye’s memory by advocating for greater awareness about the dangers of domestic violence and the steps that can be taken to prevent similar tragedies.

Conclusion: A Call for Change

The death of 19-year-old Davonye Cummings is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers of domestic violence and the devastating consequences that can arise from unchecked abuse. Her tragic death, just days after the birth of her twin girls, leaves behind an unfillable void for her family and loved ones. As Terrence Miles and his mother face the legal consequences of their actions, the community continues to mourn, and the need for systemic change to protect women and children from domestic violence has never been more urgent. Davonye’s story serves as a call to action for greater intervention, stronger laws, and more resources to combat domestic violence in our society.