Pregnant Woman, 18, Allegedly Shot Dead by Boyfriend, 29

Lemmarra Bradshaw leaves behind her 4-year-old daughter after her boyfriend, Robert Tatum, allegedly shot her

Mar. 15, 2026 at 3:21pm

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An 18-year-old pregnant woman named Lemmarra Bradshaw was allegedly shot and killed by her 29-year-old boyfriend, Robert Tatum, in Philadelphia on March 9. Tatum now faces charges of voluntary manslaughter, possessing an instrument of crime with intent, and recklessly endangering another person. Bradshaw leaves behind her 4-year-old daughter.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing issue of domestic violence and the devastating impact it can have on families. Bradshaw's family has accused Tatum of being abusive towards her in the past, which they believe led to her death. The case also raises questions about how to better protect victims of domestic abuse and provide support for families affected by such violence.

The details

According to reports, Tatum claimed that Bradshaw "came at him with a knife and a screwdriver" when he allegedly shot her. Bradshaw's family, however, has accused Tatum of being abusive towards her, including punching her in the face two weeks prior to the incident. The couple was reportedly fighting over a hamster that Bradshaw's mother had bought for her 4-year-old daughter, though Bradshaw's aunt claimed they were arguing over Tatum's alleged cheating.

  • Lemmarra Bradshaw was allegedly shot and killed by Robert Tatum on March 9, 2026.
  • Tatum appeared in court for a preliminary arraignment on March 11, 2026.
  • Tatum is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on March 30, 2026.

The players

Lemmarra Bradshaw

An 18-year-old pregnant woman who was allegedly shot and killed by her boyfriend, Robert Tatum.

Robert Tatum

A 29-year-old man who is facing charges of voluntary manslaughter, possessing an instrument of crime with intent, and recklessly endangering another person for allegedly shooting and killing his pregnant girlfriend, Lemmarra Bradshaw.

Michelle Adekola

Lemmarra Bradshaw's mother, who expressed feeling that she did not protect her daughter enough to prevent her death.

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What they’re saying

“He punched her in her face, like, two weeks ago, and in less than 24 hours, Lemmarra went back to him. He manipulated her. He's always in a jealous rage.”

— Bradshaw's aunt (6 ABC Philadelphia)

“I feel like I didn't protect her enough to let this man kill my daughter, and I wasn't there to help her. It makes me feel broken inside.”

— Michelle Adekola, Lemmarra Bradshaw's mother (6 ABC Philadelphia)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on March 30, 2026, whether or not to allow Robert Tatum out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the ongoing issue of domestic violence and the need for better support and protection for victims. It also raises questions about how to prevent such incidents and ensure the safety of vulnerable individuals, especially pregnant women and their children.