Hazel Reese, affectionately known as “Nene,” was a “proud Mama Bear” to her two boys in Atlanta, Georgia. Her family said “her smile and laughter were contagious.”

Reese was shot to death just one day before her birthday, on Christmas. Law enforcement describe the shooting as a murder-suicide, which took place at a Microtel hotel in Brookhaven, Georgia, on Christmas Eve 2022.

Officers responding to a shots fired call about 9:15 a.m. found a man with a gunshot wound to his head. 

Reese was found lying face down in the elevator, where she died, according to police. The man later died after being taken to Grady Memorial Hospital in critical condition.

Reese’s family is dealing with grief as well as how to explain their mother’s death to her two young sons.

"They don't realize that she's not coming back,"Joette Thomas, Reese's aunt, told 11Alive. “And I really think that it's going to take them getting some counseling because they're so used to their mom. She did everything for them."

A GoFundMe has been set up to provide for Reese's boys. It reads:

“Hazel aka Nene was murdered on Saturday 24th the day before her birthday, at the Brookhaven hotel by someone she knew. She was unexpectedly taken from her family and friends and she was the main provider for her two boys. Nene was a breath of fresh air, she loved everyone, and had a forgiven heart. She always wanted the best for everyone around her. Nene always saw the good in everybody and it hurts that she is no longer with us. Her smile and laughter were contagious. She wanted to see her boys go to college and make something of themselves, she was a proud mama bear. The money we raise is solely going to expenses for funeral costs because Hazel didn't have life insurance and to help with her boys, who miss their mom so much. Any contribution is greatly appreciated. May Nene Rest In Peace.“

Moore is currently being held without bond. 
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