The family of a 38-year-old woman fatally shot after a night out in Charlotte is now speaking publicly about the devastating loss, describing her as a joyful, loving woman whose death has left an entire community in shock.

Taylor, remembered by relatives as someone who carried “positive energy” everywhere she went, was killed following a shooting that authorities say unfolded after a night out in Charlotte’s busy NoDa entertainment district. Family members say the tragedy has completely shattered those closest to her and renewed painful conversations about the growing impact of gun violence in local communities.

Renee Phillips, a relative of the victim, spoke emotionally about Taylor while reflecting on the woman loved by friends, family, and neighbors alike.

According to Phillips, Taylor was known for her warm personality, outgoing nature, and ability to make people feel welcome wherever she went. Loved ones say she was the type of person who naturally brought people together and created a positive atmosphere around everyone she met.

“She was fun, friendly, and full of positive energy,” Phillips reportedly shared while speaking about the heartbreaking loss.

Authorities say the deadly incident happened after Taylor spent part of the evening socializing with friends. At some point during the night, violence erupted, leaving Taylor critically wounded after she was allegedly shot twice in the chest.

Emergency responders rushed her to the hospital, but despite efforts to save her life, she later died from her injuries.

As investigators worked to piece together what happened, detectives quickly identified a suspect connected to the shooting. Police later arrested 26-year-old Adasia Cole in Birmingham, Alabama, in connection with the case.

Law enforcement officials say Cole is currently being held while authorities work through the extradition process to return her to Mecklenburg County to formally face charges related to the deadly shooting.

The rapid arrest brought some relief to grieving loved ones, but family members say nothing can undo the pain caused by Taylor’s death.

While investigators have not publicly confirmed a motive, a friend familiar with the situation claimed the shooting may have stemmed from an argument connected to a romantic relationship. That detail has fueled widespread discussion online, though relatives remain focused less on speculation and more on honoring Taylor’s life.

For Taylor’s family, the tragedy represents something larger than a single violent incident.

Loved ones say they hope her death becomes a wake-up call about the increasing presence of gun violence in everyday spaces where people should feel safe — including restaurants, nightlife districts, and community gathering spots.

Family members expressed hope that sharing Taylor’s story could inspire more conversations about safety, accountability, and preventing future violence before more lives are destroyed.

“This should never happen to anyone,” one relative reportedly said while discussing the emotional impact left behind.

The case has deeply affected many in Charlotte, especially as details continue emerging about how quickly an ordinary evening turned deadly. Community members have flooded social media with tributes, prayers, and messages supporting Taylor’s loved ones during the ongoing investigation.

But for the family, the focus remains on making sure people remember who Taylor truly was beyond the headlines surrounding her death.

Relatives say they want the public to remember her smile, her kindness, her energy, and the way she impacted people around her — not just the violence that took her life away too soon.

As legal proceedings continue against the suspect, loved ones say they are determined to keep Taylor’s memory alive while continuing to push for awareness about the devastating human cost of gun violence.