“One firearms discharge, especially one that's fatal, is too many for the city”

As Sheffield prepares for another sunny weekend, a senior detective has been asked whether people can feel safe in the city in the wake of a fatal shooting.

A gun was fired on West Street in the early hours of Bank Holiday Monday (May 25, 2026), hitting innocent bystander Shanice Brookes, who had been enjoying a night out in Sheffield city centre.

A shooter opened fire on West Street in the early hours of Bank Holiday Monday (May 25, 2026), hitting innocent bystander Shanice Brookes who had been enjoying a night out in Sheffield city centre.
Sadly, despite the best efforts of those at the scene and in hospital, 30-year-old Shanice could not be saved, and died a short time later — A shooter opened fire on West Street in the early hours of Bank Holiday Monday (May 25, 2026), hitting innocent bystander Shanice Brookes who had been enjoying a night out in Sheffield city centre. Sadly, despite the best efforts of those at the scene and in hospital, 30-year-old Shanice could not be saved, and died a short time later | 3rd party/Iconic Media

placeholder image — A shooter opened fire on West Street in the early hours of Bank Holiday Monday (May 25, 2026), hitting innocent bystander Shanice Brookes who had been enjoying a night out in Sheffield city centre. Sadly, despite the best efforts of those at the scene and in hospital, 30-year-old Shanice could not be saved, and died a short time later | 3rd party/Iconic Media

Sadly, despite the best efforts of those at the scene and in hospital, 30-year-old Shanice could not be saved, and died on Monday.

Shanice, who worked for a local charity, leaves behind a young son.

Police are today (Thursday, May 28, 2026) continuing to quiz a 30-year-old man and 32-year-old woman, both of whom were arrested on suspicion of murder in Stockport on Monday.

People across Sheffield, and across the country, were left in shock at the news a young mum could be gunned down on one of South Yorkshire’s busiest streets for those on a night out.

The Star asked Sheffield’s District Commander, Chief Superintendent Jamie Henderson, what he can say to reassure people that they are still safe going on a night out in city, in the wake of the tragedy.

He said: “One firearms discharge, especially one that's fatal, is too many for the city.

“We have done quite a lot over the recent years to try and reduce firearms criminality which made some significant reductions in what we call more serious violence within the city centre specifically.

“So while we can never rule out a future incident, but I would like to reassure the people of Sheffield that they will see an increased police presence over the next few weeks and months, going into the summer period.

“And that we are doing everything we can relentlessly to target those who were involved in the incident that tragically happened in the early hours of Monday.

“We've already made arrests and we want to develop intelligence to identify whether any further people are implicated in this offence.”

Yesterday, Shanice’s family issued an emotional tribute to her, describing her as someone who “had the biggest heart” and could “light up every room she walked into.”

They added: “She was a deeply loved daughter, granddaughter, niece, cousin, friend and godmother, as well as being an amazing mum to her son, who meant the world to her.

“To her cousins, she was more like a sister – someone they could always turn to for love, laughter and support.

“Shanice was also due to graduate from university, a reflection of her determination, ambition and the bright future ahead of her.

“She could light up every room she walked in to with her infectious laugh, beautiful soul and magical aura. Shanice made people feel loved, safe and valued simply by being herself.

“She was truly one of a kind and she will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know and love her."

Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses, as their murder investigation continues.

Please quote incident number 135 of May 25, 2026 when reporting online or getting in touch over the phone by calling 101.

You can report online here: https://www.southyorkshire.police.uk/ro/report/

There is also an option for people who may not want to deal directly with police.

If this is you, you can report information completely anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on freephone 0800 555 111 or by visiting their website. No details are collected during their confidential reporting service and no one will know you have contacted them.

Further information about the support available for witnesses can also be found on South Yorkshire Police’s website: https://www.southyorkshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/victim-support/victim-witness-support/