Romeca Meeks-Blackmon, a 31-year-old mother, was shot in the face and killed on Monday morning, September 8, 2025, in Chicago’s South Loop area near State Street and Cermak (South State Street near Serach Road) while dropping off her son at school. She was taken to Stroger Hospital but did not survive.
Following the shooting, the suspect—Quadajah “Holly” Johnson—was arrested and held by Chicago police. However, as of reports published September 12–13, 2025, prosecutors announced that Johnson has been released without any charges filed.
Romeca’s mother, Tina McMiller, has publicly demanded justice and called for stricter measures against domestic violence. She joined local leaders near the scene of the shooting and urged enforcement of Illinois House Bill 158, which treats violence as a public health crisis. A vigil was held outside Englewood STEM High School (or nearby), where hundreds of balloons were released in memory of Romeca, and her family described her as a kind, loving person who cared deeply for her child.
Romeca’s young son is now being cared for by his grandmother. He is still trying to understand the loss of his mother.
Many reports highlight that Romeca shared a child with a man named Carlos (sometimes referred to as Carlos Losos Way), who was present during the altercation. There are differing accounts about what triggered the confrontation. Some say Romeca had a restraining order against Carlos, and the relationship was unstable. Others—including people close to Carlos and Holly—claim Romeca may have harassed Holly, destroyed property, and initiated the fight on the day of the shooting.
Witnesses reported that a physical struggle broke out. They allege Carlos held Romeca in a headlock, while Holly retrieved a firearm from their vehicle and shot Romeca in the face. Holly later told police she feared for her life, citing her concealed-carry license and claiming self-defense.
Ultimately, no charges were brought against either Johnson (“Holly”) or Carlos. Police have labeled the shooting “domestic in nature,” but the exact sequence of events are still debated.
The most heart-wrenching part of this story was the note she wrote for her son. She wrote it on the first day of school and put it in his lunch bag. As a mom, that messed me up a little. Was she expecting something bad to happen?
I started thinking the other day. Most BW on BW (Black Woman on Black Woman) violence stems from either jealousy or a man. This happens whether you’re trying to impress him or keep him. Its sad because once again, kids will be missing a mother. Do you even care about your kids at all???
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