Tragic Missouri Police Shooting: Family Seeks Justice for Mother and Baby

Missouri Mother and Baby Fatally Shot in Police-Involved Incident, Family Seeks Justice

The tragic deaths of 34-year-old Maria Pike and her 2-month-old daughter, Destinii Hope, have left their Missouri family and community heartbroken. The pair was killed in an officer-involved shooting on November 7, 2024, after police responded to a domestic disturbance call in Independence, Missouri.

Family Mourns Loss Amid Unanswered Questions

Maria’s mother, Talisa Coombs, placed the 911 call after a physical altercation with Pike, citing concerns about her mental health and postpartum depression. She expected police intervention to de-escalate the situation and provide help, not the heartbreaking outcome that unfolded.

Eyewitness accounts, including one from Destinii's father, Mitchell Holder, reveal a disturbing series of events. Holder says Pike was holding Destinii when officers entered their apartment. Moments later, a single gunshot struck the infant in the head while she was still in her mother's arms.

“They shot my baby,” Holder recounted. “Her blood splattered on my glasses. All I could do was scream, ‘You killed her!’ over and over.”

Witnesses also reported that Pike was shot multiple times after the initial tragedy. Discrepancies remain regarding whether Pike wielded a weapon, as police claim she was armed with a knife. However, family members dispute this, with Holder stating, “I never saw her holding anything.”

Body Camera Footage Could Hold the Answers

The Independence Police Department has handed the investigation over to the Jackson County Police Involved Investigative Team (PIIT). Police Chief Adam Dustman confirmed that only one officer discharged their firearm. That officer, described as a veteran of the force, is on administrative leave along with two others involved.

PIIT officials revealed they have reviewed body camera footage, but it has yet to be released to the public. Community members and family are demanding transparency. “Why has the body camera footage not been released?” asked Amber Travis, a cousin of the victims, at a recent vigil.

Community Support and Calls for Change

The tragedy has sparked community outrage and solidarity. A vigil held in memory of Maria and Destinii drew widespread support. “It means a lot that the community feels what we feel,” said Holder. “It won’t bring her back, but we know we’re not alone.”

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to cover funeral expenses for Destinii, who would have turned three months old on November 22. As of Wednesday, it has raised over $3,000.

Seeking Justice and Accountability

Family members and activists are calling for disciplinary action against the officers involved and the immediate release of bodycam footage. They hope this evidence will clarify the events and bring some measure of peace.

“We just want answers and accountability,” said Coombs. “No family should have to endure this.”