Heartbreaking Tragedy in Columbia: A Mother Seeks Justice for Her Daughter
Columbia, S.C. – The heart-wrenching story of Tierra Hamer has captivated the Columbia community, as her mother, Shanequa Scott, bravely shares her grief and search for answers following her daughter’s untimely death. Hamer, just 23 years old, tragically lost her life when her car drove into the Broad River after what has been identified as a series of distressing events.
Friends and neighbors revealed that Hamer had expressed fears for her safety and was reportedly a victim of domestic violence. In a heartfelt conversation, Scott emphasized the importance of speaking up, particularly for those struggling in abusive relationships. “Don’t wait until this moment, don’t wait until your story can’t be told by your own voice,” she implored. “Let your voice be heard, don’t be afraid to talk.”
Meeting with Law Enforcement
In her pursuit of justice, Scott met with Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott and other officials. Despite their discussions, she still felt more questions linger than answers provided. “I’m hurt, I’m broken, I’m angry, I’m disappointed,” she said, her voice filled with sorrow. “It just doesn’t feel real at all.”
Scott wants the world to know that her daughter was not a criminal; she was a victim. “I just want everyone to know that my daughter was not the criminal, my daughter is the victim,” Scott emphasized, stating that women in similar situations should reach out for help. “You don’t have to be quiet, you’re not alone. Someone will help you.”
The Events Leading to Tragedy
As part of the recent meeting, Scott and her attorney, Simone Martin, reviewed body camera footage from the day of Hamer’s death on September 11. They also looked at footage from September 8, Hamer’s birthday, where she called 911, reporting an altercation with an ex-boyfriend who had taken her keys. In the recorded footage, friends noted that Hamer appeared terrified and frustrated at the lack of assistance she received.
“In the videos, you see a young woman who is terrified, yet frustrated, that despite her many requests for help, no one came to her rescue,” Martin remarked, highlighting the depth of Hamer’s distress. Scott mentioned that Hamer had requested a trespass notice against her ex-boyfriend, but no action was taken as she allegedly didn’t want to press charges.
Tragic Outcome
Later that day, deputies also received a call about civil disturbance near Hamer’s apartment. It was reported that her ex-boyfriend had damaged her vehicle, and neighbors heard her voice filled with concern for her safety. Despite these alarming details, no arrests followed. According to an RCSD incident report, Hamer became “irate” and began to show signs of distress before leaving the scene.
In a tragic turn of events, just minutes later, video footage captured Hamer driving her car into the river after colliding with a man. The sheriff’s department noted that there was no documented pattern of abuse involving her and her ex-boyfriend, which Scott vehemently contests. “It should not take me burying my baby just to be heard,” she lamented. “My baby just turned 23 years old. I’m not supposed to bury my baby; she is supposed to bury me.”
Tierra Hamer: A Life Remembered
Scott proudly remembered her daughter as a “helper.” She recounted stories of how Hamer selflessly aided others, including a stranger whose car had caught fire. “She just ran over, didn’t even know her and started helping her pull her kids out of the car,” Scott said emotionally. That kind-hearted spirit is what will be celebrated at Hamer’s wake on Friday and funeral on Saturday.
Hamer had dreams of helping others, aspiring to become both a hairdresser and a psychiatrist. “She just wanted to help as many people as she could help,” Scott expressed, fighting back tears.
The Fight for Justice
As the investigation continues, Martin and Scott are determined to seek accountability for all individuals involved. They want to ensure that law enforcement takes domestic violence cases more seriously to prevent further heartbreak for others in similar situations. “We still don’t think that we know everything, and we won’t rest until we get the full truth,” Martin stated confidently.
The community of Columbia continues to rally in support, sharing stories of Hamer’s impact and remembering the bright life that ended far too soon.
