Chicago mother of six murdered in her home while children present, GoFundMe launched for support

A tragic act of domestic violence has shaken a Chicago community after 30-year-old Shaniqua Kinnard, a devoted mother of six, was found murdered inside her Riverdale home on July 11, 2025. Her children were reportedly inside the residence at the time of the fatal assault. Chicago police have charged Jarves Toms-Dixon, 30, with first-degree murder. Toms-Dixon, father of Kinnard’s youngest child, turned himself in two days after the attack, Chicago Sun Times reports.

Shaniqua Kinnard: A Life Cut Short

Kinnard was discovered unresponsive by one of her children in the 13000 block of South Martin Luther King Drive. The Cook County Medical Examiner ruled her death a homicide, citing multiple injuries from an assault. Prosecutors revealed a disturbing timeline of abuse, including prior incidents where Kinnard sought protection from Toms-Dixon, who allegedly violated court orders and made threats.

Family and Community in Mourning

Loved ones describe Shaniqua as a “free spirit” who loved music, cooking, and her children fiercely. “She didn’t have a lot, but she always made a way for her kids,” said her sister, Tenecia Kinnard. Her brother, Treveyon, urged others facing abuse to seek help: “Domestic abuse is a vicious cycle… one day you might never get that chance again”.

GoFundMe Launched to Support Shaniqua Kinnard’s Children

In the wake of this devastating loss, a GoFundMe campaign has been created to cover funeral expenses and provide long-term support for Kinnard’s six children. The fundraiser reads: “Her body was discovered by her own kids. No child should ever have to witness something like this… Her life was stolen, and her children’s world has been shattered.” The campaign aims to fund trauma counseling, daily necessities, and future educational needs. As of Thursday, it has raised over $7,200.

Resources for Domestic Violence Survivors

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org for confidential support.