Tragic Loss in Birmingham: A Community Mourns
Birmingham is reeling after a devastating mass shooting on September 21 that took the life of 21-year-old Anitra Holloman, a promising college student and devoted mother. Known as “ReRe” to her friends and family, Holloman was at an event with friends when her life was tragically cut short.
A Journey Through Pain
Holloman had already faced unimaginable pain when her boyfriend, Demetris Silliman Jr., was killed in a shooting in October 2022, leaving her to raise their daughter, Skilar, alone. Just four months pregnant at the time of his death, Holloman pushed forward with remarkable strength. Her mother, Candace Kemp, recalls her determination: “My baby stayed strong. She had their baby, and she was the best mom,” Kemp said.
Life and Dreams Cut Short
Despite the obstacles she faced, Holloman was in college studying to become a teacher while also working at her family’s tax firm. Kemp shared how hardworking her daughter was, constantly striving to make a better life for herself and Skilar. “She was very goal-driven,” Kemp noted. “She said she wanted to be like her mom because I’m an entrepreneur myself.”
That hopeful future came crashing down the night of the shooting outside Hush Lounge on Magnolia Avenue. Four people tragically lost their lives when gunmen unleashed over 100 rounds into a crowd, leaving 17 others injured, five of whom still remain hospitalized.
Final Moments
Holloman was out celebrating a Jackson-Olin High School alumni event with friends. They had just arrived when chaos erupted. In a heartbreaking twist, another victim, 27-year-old Tahj Booker, tried to shield Holloman from the bullets, but sadly, both lost their lives that night.
A Mother’s Heartbreak
Kemp’s reaction upon hearing about the shooting was one of sheer dread. “I just knew something was wrong,” she said, recalling the frantic calls she made as she rushed to the scene. After checking multiple hospitals, the heartbreaking reality set in when an officer told her that Holloman was still on the ground where she fell.
The loss has left a profound impact on Kemp, who remembers Holloman as a fierce loving presence. “She was my best friend,” Kemp said, reflecting on their close bond. “Everybody loved ReRe. She was just that girl.”
Seeking Comfort
As Kemp navigates this unimaginable loss, she finds herself thinking of how little Skilar might understand the situation. “She goes into their bedroom – they slept in the same bedroom – and keeps looking like, ‘Where’s my mama?’” Kemp described. Even at such a young age, it seems Skilar can sense the absence of her mother, a bond that was clearly deeply felt.
Remembering a Bright Spirit
Holloman was known for her kind nature and was a thoughtful gift-giver, making memories for those she loved. “She loved very hard,” Kemp said, emphasizing her daughter’s generous spirit. “She didn’t ever miss a gift for whatever holiday was special to me.”
A Call for Change
Looking forward, Kemp has questions she wishes she could ask the shooters: “Why? Why did you have to do it there with all of these innocent bystanders?” she implores. A reward of up to $100,000 has been offered by the FBI and Crime Stoppers for information about those responsible for the shooting.
Community Support
Birmingham is coming together to mourn the loss of Holloman and the others affected by this tragic incident. As the community reflects on the fragility of life and the impact of gun violence, there is a united call for change, justice, and healing.
