Tavarus Joiner, 32, was shot and killed inside his Villa Rica, Georgia, home after he sheltered his cousin who was fleeing an abusive relationship. The man identified as the suspect, 35-year-old Karlton Sirmons, allegedly forced entry by kicking in the door and opened fire. Joiner was struck first and died at the scene; his cousin was reportedly shot eight times and survived, and Joiner’s girlfriend survived but suffered a broken leg. Joiner’s two young sons, ages three and five, were in the home and witnessed the attack.

Authorities say Sirmons was arrested after fleeing and was charged with two counts of murder, three counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, first-degree home invasion, three counts of cruelty to children, battery, criminal damage to property, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and other counts. Reports note Sirmons faced a prior murder charge in 2019 for which he was acquitted. Joiner’s family remembered him as silly, fun-loving, and protective.

If anyone saw activity near that Villa Rica residence or has information about the night of the shooting, please share what is known.