Lemmarra Bradshaw, 18, Pregnant Woman Allegedly Shot Dead by Boyfriend Robert Tatum, 29, in Philadelphia

A tragic shooting in Philadelphia has left an 18-year-old pregnant woman dead and a man facing serious criminal charges. Authorities say Lemmarra Bradshaw was allegedly shot and killed by her boyfriend, Robert Tatum, on March 9.

Bradshaw, who was pregnant with her second child at the time of her death, leaves behind a 4-year-old daughter, according to reports from 6ABC Philadelphia and Law & Crime.

Boyfriend Faces Manslaughter Charges

Court records show that Robert Tatum, 29, has been charged with voluntary manslaughter, possessing an instrument of crime with intent, and recklessly endangering another person in connection with the shooting.

According to reports, Tatum told investigators that Bradshaw had approached him with a knife and a screwdriver before the shooting occurred.

Authorities have not released further details about the circumstances of the incident as the investigation continues.

Family Claims History of Abuse

Members of Bradshaw’s family say the young woman had experienced abuse throughout the relationship, and they believe it ultimately contributed to her death.

Bradshaw’s aunt told 6ABC Philadelphia that Tatum had allegedly assaulted Bradshaw just weeks before the fatal incident.

“He punched her in her face like two weeks ago,” the aunt said. “In less than 24 hours, Lemmarra went back to him. He manipulated her. He’s always in a jealous rage.”

Argument Before the Shooting

According to reports, Bradshaw and Tatum had been arguing the night of the shooting.

Some accounts suggest the disagreement involved a hamster purchased by Bradshaw’s mother for the victim’s 4-year-old daughter. However, Bradshaw’s aunt told reporters the argument may have actually stemmed from allegations that Tatum had been cheating.

Family Mourning the Loss

Bradshaw’s mother, Michelle Adekola, described the devastating impact of the tragedy.

“I feel like I didn’t protect her enough to let this man kill my daughter, and I wasn’t there to help her,” Adekola told reporters. “It makes me feel broken inside.”

On a GoFundMe page created by the family, loved ones described Bradshaw’s death as an “unimaginable loss.”

“Her death has left a deep and painful void in the hearts of everyone who loved her,” the family wrote. “The loss of both Lemmarra and her unborn baby has devastated our family and our community.”

Court Proceedings Ahead

Tatum appeared in court for a preliminary arraignment on March 11. He is scheduled to return to court for a preliminary hearing on March 30 as the legal process moves forward.

Bradshaw’s family says they are now focused on honoring her life and supporting one another while seeking justice in the case.