Arcadia police said officers responded to a shooting at the Jacaranda Trail apartment complex shortly after 9:00 a.m. on Friday. When they arrived, they found a woman who had been shot multiple times following what investigators described as a domestic incident. The scene quickly escalated into a wider investigation as officers secured the area and began searching for a suspect.
Authorities later located and arrested 45-year-old Eric Devon Robinson nearby without further incident. Police said Robinson is facing multiple serious charges, including two counts of first-degree murder, one count of kidnapping, and one count of obstructing justice. Investigators believe the violence unfolded in more than one location within the apartment complex over the course of the morning and early afternoon.
After the initial response, officers discovered a second victim inside the complex around 1:00 p.m. She had also been shot and killed. The confirmation of a second death turned the case into a double homicide investigation and deepened the shock felt across the community.
Family members and friends identified the victims as Tanika Summers and Barbara Bates. Summers, described by loved ones as a devoted and compassionate mother, was preparing to begin a new chapter in her life. Jennifer Bowser, executive director of Arcadia-DeSoto County Habitat for Humanity, said Summers had been working toward moving into a new Habitat home in Arcadia and had recently helped with hands-on work at the property, including laying sod just a day before her death.
Bowser remembered Summers as someone whose personality stood out in any room. She said Summers had a contagious laugh and a warmth that made a lasting impression on everyone she met. The organization had planned to hold a home dedication ceremony for her the following week, but those plans have now been replaced with a memorial service in her honor.
The second victim, 77-year-old Barbara Bates, was described by relatives as both funny and strong-willed. Her granddaughter, Madalyn Brown, said Bates was deeply loved and remained in good health for her age, making her sudden death especially devastating for the family. Another relative, Alonda Lester, said Bates was believed to have been targeted during the incident and may have witnessed the initial shooting before being killed.
Lester expressed grief and disbelief, saying the family is heartbroken while also praying for the other victim’s loved ones. Police have not released additional details about the motive, and Arcadia police have not yet responded to further requests for comment.
A public memorial for Tanika Summers is scheduled for Wednesday, April 22, at 5:30 p.m. at 1123 East Maple Street in Arcadia, as the community continues to mourn the loss of two lives cut short by violence.
