Thanks for all the observations and suggestions. I hadn’t noticed that the ferrule was cracked. I don’t think the cracked ferrule contributed to the tip shattering, but I’m sure that the lack of support in the center of the shaft was a big factor.
I will check into replacing the ferrule and will put either a Samara or White Diamond tip on it. I opted for a Samsara tip when I bought the cue. I liked it, but the layers separated.