A heartbreaking incident in Augusta, Georgia, has shocked the local community and raised fresh concerns about how the legal system handles domestic violence cases. A woman and her elderly mother were tragically shot and killed during a custody exchange with the woman’s ex-husband. The case has now become a chilling reminder of the dangers survivors of abuse may continue to face even after seeking legal protection.
What Happened in Augusta, Georgia?
On Sunday, September 7, 2025, 41-year-old Melissa Cui Domingo and her 74-year-old mother Elizabeth Cui Domingo were shot and killed in a Best Buy parking lot. According to Richmond County police, the shooting happened during a custody exchange between Melissa and her ex-husband Hajir Talebzadeh, also 41.
Melissa’s five-year-old son Michael was present at the scene and witnessed the entire incident. He is now under the care of the Department of Family and Children Services, as reported by several local news outlets.
Details of the Tragic Past
This heartbreaking event came just days after a court cleared Melissa of a 2021 incident in which she allegedly shot Talebzadeh in the head. The court had ruled that she acted in self-defense, and the charges were dropped.
Melissa had been diagnosed with Battered Woman Syndrome (BWS) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which were both a result of years of alleged abuse by Talebzadeh. According to court records, she endured ongoing controlling and violent behaviour, which played a major role in her mental health struggles.
The couple officially divorced in November 2024, but even after taking all legal steps, Melissa was not safe.
Suspect Arrested and Facing Charges
After the shooting, Talebzadeh called 911, reportedly claiming he shot Melissa in self-defense. However, police arrested him and charged him with:
Two counts of murder
One count of cruelty to a child
He was treated for minor injuries and then booked into jail. As of now, details about his legal representation or any plea have not been released.
Remembering Melissa and Elizabeth
Friends and family describe Melissa and her mother Elizabeth as warm-hearted and resilient women. An online obituary stated they always looked for ways to spread joy and stay strong—even during the hardest times.
Melissa’s friend, Ally Bodie, shared that Melissa had followed every instruction given by the court. She expressed her grief and frustration, saying, “She did everything the right way. I just feel like the system has failed her.”
Impact on the Child and Community Support
The young child, Michael, is now left without his mother and grandmother. A GoFundMe page has been set up to support his care and emotional well-being. Many in the community are coming forward to offer help, prayers, and financial support.
A Call for Better Protection
This tragic story has sparked conversations about how the legal and justice systems handle domestic violence cases. Despite being cleared of past charges and having proof of abuse, Melissa was not safe from harm. Her death shows that even when survivors take the right legal steps, they may still remain vulnerable without stronger protection.
If You Are Facing Domestic Violence
If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, help is available. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for free, confidential support 24/7.
The deaths of Melissa and Elizabeth Domingo are a heartbreaking reminder of the serious risks involved in domestic violence situations. Melissa did everything she was told to do—yet it wasn’t enough to keep her and her mother safe. As the investigation continues, many are now calling for reforms in how courts handle custody, protection orders, and survivor safety, to ensure tragedies like this do not happen again.
