A tragic incident occurred in Chicago on Thursday morning when Tanisha N. Weeks, 41, was shot and killed by her ex-boyfriend, Timothy Gibbs, 35. Weeks was protecting her 7-year-old daughter outside her home in North Lawndale. The mother of two had an order of protection against Gibbs, who then turned the gun on himself after shooting Weeks. Both were found dead on the front porch of her home.
Weeks had been trying to leave her residence when Gibbs confronted her. She shielded her daughter, but Gibbs shot her twice before killing himself. Weeks died from multiple gunshot wounds, while Gibbs’ cause of death is still under investigation.
Weeks had a history of abuse from Gibbs. In her petition for an order of protection, she described years of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Gibbs had threatened to kill her and himself on several occasions. Just days after their breakup, Gibbs had pulled out a gun, forced her to sit on a couch, and threatened to kill her. Weeks had filed multiple police reports against him.
Despite these dangers, Gibbs was not detained. He had previously violated his probation and failed to register as a violent offender. Weeks had been granted a two-year order of protection against him, but it did not prevent the tragic outcome. Gibbs was ordered to stay away from Weeks and her school and to surrender his firearms, but this did not stop the violence.
This case highlights the importance of providing better support for survivors of domestic violence. Advocates, like Amanda Pyron, president of The Network, stress the need for more resources, such as housing and safety planning, to help victims escape violent situations.
Weeks’ friend, Kaniyah Todd, described her as a kind and selfless person. She had been a role model and support for Todd during difficult times, always willing to help anyone in need. Todd had last spoken to her the night before the shooting, unaware of the tragic event that would follow.
In response to rising domestic violence cases, Illinois lawmakers passed a bill called Karina’s Bill. The bill requires police to confiscate guns from people who have had their firearm owner’s identification cards revoked due to emergency restraining orders. This law aims to protect victims by ensuring dangerous individuals cannot access firearms.
