Domestic Dispute Turns Deadly Outside Best Buy in Augusta
AUGUSTA, Ga. — What began as a tense custody exchange outside a Best Buy on Walton Way Extension turned into a devastating act of violence Sunday evening, leaving two women dead in what authorities are calling a domestic-related double homicide.
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) confirmed the victims as Melissa Cui Domingo, 37, and her mother, Elizabeth Cui Domingo, 74. Both were fatally shot in the parking lot by Melissa’s ex-husband, 37-year-old Hajir Talebzadeh, who had a documented history of abuse against her.
According to investigators, the shooting occurred during the scheduled transfer of custody for the couple’s 5-year-old child. Witnesses reported a heated exchange between Melissa and Talebzadeh moments before gunfire erupted. The child was present at the scene but was not physically harmed. Authorities have since placed the child in the care of the Department of Family and Children Services.
The tragedy is especially harrowing given Melissa’s past struggles to break free from her abusive marriage. In 2021, she shot Talebzadeh during a violent confrontation, an act that prosecutors later ruled was self-defense. Melissa was granted immunity from prosecution at the time, with court records highlighting a history of domestic violence and control exerted by her husband.
Friends and advocates who supported Melissa through her legal battles say Sunday’s killings underscore the ongoing dangers faced by survivors of intimate partner violence, even after they take legal steps to protect themselves.
“This is a heartbreaking reminder that leaving an abuser doesn’t always mean the danger is over,” said one local domestic violence advocate, who called for stronger protections for survivors. “Melissa fought for her life before. She fought for her child. And now, she and her mother have paid the ultimate price.”
Elizabeth Cui Domingo, remembered by neighbors as a devoted mother and grandmother, was reportedly accompanying her daughter to the custody exchange out of concern for Melissa’s safety. Both women were found shot near their vehicle when deputies arrived on the scene.
Authorities have not released details about Talebzadeh’s arrest or potential charges as the investigation remains active. However, law enforcement officials confirmed that the shooting was domestic in nature and that no other individuals were injured.
Community members gathered Monday morning outside the Best Buy to leave flowers and candles in memory of Melissa and Elizabeth, describing them as loving, resilient women whose lives were cut short by senseless violence.
As the investigation continues, domestic violence prevention advocates are urging the community to recognize the warning signs of abuse and to push for stronger policies that protect survivors, especially during high-risk situations like custody exchanges.
The deaths of Melissa and Elizabeth Cui Domingo serve as a devastating reminder of the far-reaching impacts of domestic violence — not only on the victims but also on the families and children left behind.