Message from Richmond man after his daughter’s mother was killed during domestic dispute

RICHMOND, Va. — A Richmond mother has died, just days after police say she was shot in a domestic murder-suicide while her children were nearby.

“Please, if you know her or know her, you all know what type of person she was. You all know who she was. Please continue to support our family and pray for us. You know how to contact us.

WTVR

Shawn Cosby shared a daughter with Jonell Brown — their 10-year-old granddaughter was at a Chamberlayne Avenue apartment just a week ago when police say a disturbance turned into domestic violence.

Crime Insider sources tell Jon Burkett that a man shot Jonell, then killed himself.

Cosby says his daughter managed to get her siblings and a friend to safety.

“I’m proud of her for reacting as quickly as she did and getting her siblings and her best friend out of there,” Cosby said. “She is very strong and mature.”

WTVR

After Saturday’s shooting, Jonell fought to survive in VCU’s intensive care unit, but on Thursday she succumbed to her injuries.

“She was a great mom. She loved her children and showed love to everyone. She was a strong person,” Cosby said.

Richmond police are investigating Jonell’s death in what they are now calling a domestic murder-suicide.

Jonell’s death weighs heavily on Cosby’s heart. He hopes others will hear his story and urges those in difficult relationships to get help.

WTVR

“Ladies or men: we, on both sides of the field, face domestic violence. If you are all suffering from it, go get help. Please find someone to help you. Even if your mental is not there. There is someone to help. There is no need to go that far.

Jonell Brown was a mother of three children. If you would like to donate to a GoFundMe page to help his family with additional expenses, please click here.

In honor of Jonell, his family will host a balloon release on Saturday, October 5 at Rocketts Landing. More details are in the leaflet below.

WTVR

If you or a loved one is a victim of domestic violence, please call 800-799-7233.

This is a developing story. Email the CBS 6 Newsroom if you have additional information to share.