SANFORD, Fla. — A Florida mother is experiencing a mix of relief and renewed hope nearly two and a half years after her son was tragically killed just days before Christmas in 2022. Authorities have charged 23-year-old Thallas Inman with first-degree premeditated murder in connection to the death of Isaiah Diaz. Inman was already detained on an unrelated murder charge when he was indicted for Diaz’s killing.
Shaunkerra Donald, Diaz’s mother, recounted the moment she learned of the arrest during her work break, describing the journey since her son’s death as a harrowing emotional ride. “The detective had hinted at possible good news the week before, but I was cautious not to get too hopeful,” she shared. However, her phone call brought a definitive breakthrough: “Hey, we got him,” the detective announced.
The Sanford Police reported that the shooting occurred at the Hatteras Sound Apartments, where Diaz and two others were ambushed in their vehicle by three gunmen armed with rifles. While the two other passengers survived the attack, Diaz did not.
Donald depicted her son Isaiah as a beacon of positivity, struggling to comprehend the senseless violence that took his life. She expressed hope that this arrest might prompt others to come forward with additional information. “It’s time for people to break the silence and speak up, even if they weren’t directly involved but have relevant details,” she urged.
In a statement, Sanford Police Chief Cecil Smith reiterated the department’s commitment to the case: “Our investigators are working tirelessly on every lead and will continue relentlessly until every individual involved is brought to justice.”
The police are calling on the community for more information to aid in their ongoing investigation of the fatal incident in 2022. This comes as a semblance of justice appears on the horizon, not just for Donald but for the wider community rocked by the violence nearly three years ago.
Shaunkerra Donald, reflecting on the long journey towards justice, shared her relief and tentative joy at the recent developments. “It’s a small step in what has been a long path, but nonetheless a significant one, bringing us closer to justice for Isaiah,” she stated. Her faith and the support of her family have been her pillars during these trying times.
As the case continues to unfold, the Sanford Police Department remains steadfast in their resolve to solve this case fully, ensuring that all involved are held accountable, as emphasized by Chief Smith. The community, still shaken by the tragedy, watches and waits, hoping for full closure and justice for Isaiah Diaz.