“Love You Too”: Final Text Before Fatal St. Louis Domestic Violence Attack That Killed Mother and Two Young Daughters

A heartbreaking domestic violence case in St. Louis has drawn national attention after authorities confirmed the deaths of a young mother and her two daughters following a ᴅᴇᴀᴅly home invasion in 2021.

Police say Kanisha Hemphill, along with her 8-year-old daughter Journee and 1-year-old daughter Jakari, were killed after an ex-boyfriend allegedly forced entry into their home and opened fire. The suspect later fled the scene and attempted to evade law enforcement before being taken into custody.

What has made the case especially devastating for family members and the public is the timing of Kanisha’s final communication. Earlier that same day, she reportedly sent a simple “I love you” message to her sister—a routine expression of affection that would become her last known words to a loved one.

According to investigators, the attack occurred hours after that message was sent. Authorities allege the suspect entered the residence unlawfully and carried out the fatal shooting inside the home. Emergency responders were called, but all three victims were pronounced ᴅᴇᴀᴅ at the scene.

The suspect was later charged with three counts of first-degree murder. Prosecutors stated that the evidence, including witness accounts and investigative findings, supported the charges. The case has since moved through the legal system as part of ongoing domestic violence prosecution efforts.

Family members have described Kanisha as a loving mother devoted to her children, particularly protective of her two daughters. Journee, 8, and baby Jakari, 1, were remembered as joyful and innocent children whose lives were cut tragically short.

The case has also renewed conversations around domestic violence warning signs, intervention, and the dangers faced by victims even after relationships end. Advocates emphasize that many cases escalate without visible public warning, often leaving families vulnerable.

Authorities continue to stress the importance of reporting threats or concerning behavior early, as well as seeking support services for those at risk. While justice has moved forward through prosecution, the emotional impact on surviving family members remains profound.

As the community reflects on the tragedy, the final message—“love you”—stands as a haunting reminder of how quickly ordinary moments can turn into irreversible loss.