Auburndale, Fla. — A young mother’s life was tragically cut short in a senseless act of violence, leaving her 3-year-old son without either parent in a matter of minutes. On July 10, 2026, 20-year-old A’jazia Bellamy Rodriguez dropped her son off with his grandparents before heading to her job at a Spectrum store. She never made it home.

According to Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, A’jazia was allegedly shot multiple times in the parking lot by her 39-year-old boyfriend, Derrick Brathwaite. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Deputies located Brathwaite nearby, armed with a firearm. When he ignored commands to drop the weapon and pointed it toward officers, seven law enforcement personnel fired, and Brathwaite died from his injuries.

Investigators believe Brathwaite may have intentionally provoked the deadly confrontation with police in an apparent “suicide by cop.” Family members reported that he had allegedly threatened the day before to harm A’jazia and then take his own life. Brathwaite had an extensive criminal history, including dozens of prior arrests.

A Child Left Behind The couple’s young son, who had just been dropped off safely that morning, now faces a future without his mother or father. Family and friends are mourning A’jazia, remembering her as a loving parent, while rallying around the child and extended family. Memorial images shared online depict A’jazia as a protective angel figure alongside her smiling son.

This devastating incident highlights the dangers of domestic violence and the lasting impact on surviving children. Authorities continue to investigate the full circumstances.

Sources: Fox 13