Tanisha Weeks, 41, Found Shot to Death with Ex-Boyfriend, Timothy Gibbs, 35, in North Lawndale, Chicago – A Tragic Escalation of Domestic Violence

North Lawndale, Chicago — Tanisha Weeks, 41, and Timothy Gibbs, 35, have both been found dead in a devastating domestic violence-related shooting, which took place early Thursday morning at an apartment on West Grenshaw Street. Weeks, a mother, teacher, and beloved member of her community, had taken legal steps to protect herself from Gibbs, but the tragic events that unfolded serve as a harsh reminder of how violent relationships can escalate, even with protective measures in place.

Tanisha Weeks, 41, a dedicated educator, mother of two, and long-time resident of North Lawndale, was found lying lifeless alongside her ex-boyfriend, Timothy Gibbs, in what police are now confirming as a double homicide resulting from a domestic violence dispute. Both victims had sustained fatal gunshot wounds to the head. Authorities discovered the bodies at approximately 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 16, 2025.

Weeks, a seasoned teacher with over 15 years of experience working with pre-kindergarten through second-grade students, had been living under the constant threat of violence from Gibbs, with whom she had shared a tumultuous five-year relationship. Despite seeking and receiving an order of protection against him in December 2024, the tragic events demonstrate the frightening reality that legal interventions sometimes fail to prevent violence from escalating.

The Relationship and the Protection Order

Weeks had been living in constant fear of Gibbs, who, according to court records, had a history of abusive behavior. She documented instances of physical and emotional abuse in affidavits filed as part of the protection order she sought. Weeks stated that Gibbs had threatened to kill her on multiple occasions, had physically assaulted her, strangled her, and had even fired a gun near her during one particularly frightening episode.

Despite these serious allegations, Gibbs was released on probation after being charged with failing to register as a violent offender. It’s reported that he had previously been involved in violent criminal behavior, including assault and battery. Despite Weeks’ repeated attempts to protect herself through legal avenues, her fears were never fully alleviated.

Weeks, in her protective order application, recounted the various times Gibbs would show up at her apartment uninvited, verbally threatening her and her children. She expressed specific concern for the safety of her two young children, who had been present during some of these encounters. However, it appears that despite the legal action taken, the situation was left unresolved until the tragic shooting. Just days before her death, Weeks’ mother, Katie Gibbs, revealed that Timothy had been “threatening everyone,” indicating a pattern of behavior that had only escalated.

Tanisha Weeks’ Life: A Dedicated Mother, Teacher, and Community Member

Weeks’ life was defined by her unwavering dedication to her family, her students, and her faith. She was known for her nurturing spirit and deep commitment to the education of young children. For 15 years, Weeks served as an educator, working with young children in pre-kindergarten through second grade. Her colleagues and students’ families spoke of her as a warm and approachable teacher who cared deeply about the well-being of her students.

In addition to her teaching career, Weeks was an active member of her church, where she volunteered her time and energy in various capacities. She was loved by many in the North Lawndale community, and her loss has left a void in both the educational system and the lives of those who knew her.

“She was a light in our community, always working to make the world a better place for the children she taught and the people around her,” one of her colleagues shared in a statement following her death. “Her kindness, patience, and dedication to her students will never be forgotten.”

Weeks was also described as a loving mother who had always prioritized the safety and happiness of her two children. Those who knew her said she worked tirelessly to create a nurturing environment for them, despite the challenges she faced in her personal life. Her friends and family expressed deep shock and sorrow at the tragedy, noting that she had fought so hard to protect herself and her children from harm.

Timothy Gibbs’ History of Violence

Timothy Gibbs’ involvement in the deaths of Tanisha Weeks and himself highlights a darker side to their relationship. Gibbs had a history of violent behavior, including previous charges related to assault, battery, and firearm offenses. The police confirmed that he had been on probation at the time of the incident, following a conviction for failing to register as a violent offender, a legal requirement for individuals with a history of violent crimes.

In December 2024, Weeks took a brave step to protect herself by filing an order of protection against Gibbs. In her affidavit, she outlined the abuse she had endured during their five-year relationship, which was marked by extreme physical and emotional violence. Despite her efforts to keep Gibbs away, it’s clear that he had continued to terrorize her, even after the legal protection had been put in place.

Weeks’ family members had been aware of the danger that Gibbs posed to her, with her mother, Katie Gibbs, describing how Timothy had been “threatening everyone” in the days leading up to the fatal shooting. Her statement underscores the belief that Gibbs was spiraling further into violence and that his fixation on Tanisha Weeks was dangerously unresolved.

A Shocking and Unpredictable Turn of Events

The tragic nature of this case is compounded by the fact that Weeks had gone to great lengths to protect herself and her children. She sought out a protective order in an attempt to keep her family safe from Gibbs’ abusive and threatening behavior. Unfortunately, the legal system’s intervention was not enough to prevent the final, fatal escalation of violence.

In the aftermath of the shooting, local residents and loved ones have struggled to come to terms with the senseless loss. Neighbors who had known Tanisha and her family were devastated by the news, with many sharing their shock at how the violence had escalated despite the legal protections in place. Some have questioned whether more could have been done to prevent this outcome, while others are left grappling with the complexity of domestic violence and the challenges involved in escaping abusive relationships.

“I can’t believe she’s gone,” one neighbor said tearfully. “She was such a kind soul, always helping others. To think she had to live in fear like that… it’s just heartbreaking.”

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the events surrounding the deaths of Tanisha Weeks and Timothy Gibbs. While they have yet to confirm the specific details of the incident, they are treating it as a case of domestic violence gone tragically wrong.

The Impact of Domestic Violence on Families and Communities

The deaths of Tanisha Weeks and Timothy Gibbs have brought renewed attention to the prevalence and dangers of domestic violence, particularly in situations where victims are unable to escape or find lasting protection from their abusers. The case also highlights the limitations of legal protections, as evidenced by the tragic events that unfolded despite Weeks’ efforts to shield herself and her children.

Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that affects people across all demographics and communities. In the United States, it is estimated that nearly 1 in 4 women will experience domestic violence in their lifetime. However, many victims face enormous challenges in seeking help, with many afraid to leave their abusers due to fear of retaliation or the threat of further violence.

This tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the emotional and physical toll that domestic violence takes on victims, and it underscores the importance of providing not only legal protections, but also access to resources, counseling, and support networks for those affected by abuse. It also highlights the critical need for ongoing education and awareness about the dangers of domestic violence and the steps that can be taken to prevent it.

Remembering Tanisha Weeks: A Legacy of Love and Dedication

As her family and community mourn the loss of Tanisha Weeks, it is clear that her life was one of great love, care, and dedication. While the circumstances of her death are tragic, her legacy lives on through the countless children she taught, the people whose lives she touched, and the family and friends who will forever remember her as a kind, selfless, and courageous woman.

Her death has sparked conversations about the ways in which society must do more to address domestic violence and provide better support for victims. In the wake of this tragedy, advocates for domestic violence victims are calling for greater attention to the issue, more comprehensive policies to protect those at risk, and increased resources for families in need of help.

Tanisha Weeks’ story is a heartbreaking reminder of the urgent need for change in how society addresses domestic violence. The impact of her life cannot be overstated, and her memory will continue to inspire those who knew her to stand against violence and stand up for those who are most vulnerable.

Funeral services for Tanisha Weeks will be held at [church name], with a visitation on [date], followed by a memorial service. Her family has requested donations be made to [domestic violence organization] in lieu of flowers.

In loving memory of Tanisha Weeks, who touched the lives of many and whose tragic death highlights the urgent need for action against domestic violence.