BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A woman’s tragic prediction two days before her death cast a haunting shadow over her family, as authorities investigate the fatal shooting involving LaVentrice Denise Tolbert and her boyfriend. The incident, which police say involved domestic violence, has left the community in shock.
On the night of September 24, police responded to reports of gunfire at a residence on Kiser Road. Upon their arrival, they found 40-year-old Tolbert dead inside the home. Meanwhile, her 35-year-old boyfriend, Tony DeWayne Davis, was found with life-threatening injuries and later succumbed to his wounds on September 26.
Initial police investigations suggest that Davis shot Tolbert before turning the gun on himself. The tragic scene unfolded in the presence of family members who fortunately escaped unharmed.
Two days prior to her death, Tolbert had a foreboding conversation with her sister, Monique. During a meeting, LaVentrice eerily expressed her thoughts about planning her funeral, asking Monique to take charge if such a time came. “She told me, ‘When I leave, you will be the one to plan my funeral,’” Monique recalled. The two sisters shared a close bond, often working together at Birmingham’s Top Golf.
Monique described their relationship as fraught with abuse from the beginning. “I was afraid this would happen,” she said, emphasizing the urgency in urging her sister to leave the tumultuous relationship.
In light of this tragedy, Monique is determined to raise awareness about domestic violence. She encourages anyone experiencing abuse to seek help and understand that there are pathways to safety. “You can reach out to family and friends. There is always hope for a better life,” she implored.
As communities grapple with the implications of such violence, resources are available for those in crisis. The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached at 800-799-7233, and individuals can also text “START” to 88788 to chat with a crisis representative. Additionally, anyone in emotional distress can connect with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.
LaVentrice’s story serves as a painful reminder of the realities many face behind closed doors. Her sister hopes that sharing their experience will inspire others to break the silence surrounding abusive relationships.