Dallas, Texas | October 7, 2025- A tragic incident outside a PetSmart store in Dallas on October 7, 2025, resulted in the death of 41-year-old Cecilia Simpson. The fatal shooting occurred in the 3500 block of West Wheatland, after a confrontation between Simpson and 22-year-old Keona Zachyua Hampton. Hampton has since been arrested and charged in connection with the shooting.
What Happened
The incident began earlier in the day when Cecilia Simpson, accompanied by her 20-year-old daughter, was leaving a Five Below store in the same shopping center as the PetSmart. According to an arrest affidavit, Simpson held the door open for Hampton, but Hampton did not thank her. This seemingly minor interaction led to an argument between Simpson and Hampton.
After walking to their car, Simpson and her daughter drove to PetSmart, with Hampton allegedly following them. Upon entering PetSmart, the mother and daughter informed employees they were being followed. Hampton entered the store and continued the argument with Simpson’s daughter. Following several heated exchanges, employees asked both parties to leave the store.
Escalation and Shooting
In the parking lot, as Simpson and her daughter were getting into their car, Hampton allegedly threw a drink bottle at their vehicle. Simpson, upset, walked up to Hampton to confront her. The confrontation escalated into a physical altercation, with Simpson reportedly striking Hampton multiple times while shouting at her to leave them alone.
At that point, Simpson’s daughter stepped away from the fight. The affidavit states that this is when Hampton allegedly pulled out a black and silver handgun and shot Simpson three times. Simpson fell to the ground after being hit, and the suspect fled the scene.
Investigation and Arrest
Surveillance footage captured the shooting and showed Hampton driving away in a black Ford Five Hundred. Dallas police conducted an undercover surveillance operation and observed Hampton at her apartment. Officers identified her as the suspect from the footage, and later that evening, they conducted a traffic stop on the black Ford Five Hundred.
During her interview with police, Hampton admitted to being involved in the argument with Simpson and her daughter. She confirmed throwing the drink bottle and engaging in the physical confrontation. Hampton stated that when the witness intervened in the fight, she took out her gun and shot Simpson, claiming she only wanted to get Simpson away from her.
Hampton was booked into the Dallas County Jail, where her bond has not been set.
Community Reaction and Legal Proceedings
This tragic incident has shocked the Dallas community. The police are continuing their investigation, and the case has raised concerns about how quickly a simple argument can escalate into violence. Hampton faces charges of murder, and the legal process will proceed as more details emerge.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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