Woman Charged with Murder After Fatal Parking Lot Shooting

UPDATE: A woman has been charged with murder following a shocking incident in a Texas parking lot that left another woman dead over a dispute about a simple “thank you.”

Authorities report that Keona Zachyua Hampton, 22, allegedly shot 41-year-old Cecilia Simpson multiple times on July 25, 2023, outside a PetSmart store in Dallas. This deadly confrontation began after Simpson held the door open for Hampton at a nearby Five Below store. When Hampton failed to express gratitude, an argument ensued, escalating quickly.

The incident took place shortly after 3 PM, as both women exited the Five Below store with Simpson’s daughter. Following the initial confrontation, Simpson and her daughter drove to the PetSmart, seeking refuge from the escalating situation. Witnesses say Hampton followed them, prompting Simpson to seek help from store employees.

A witness, an ER nurse present during the incident, recounted,

“The shooter was saying, ‘Come outside. Let’s handle this outside. Let’s fight outside.’ And the mom and daughter were just telling her to go away.”

Inside the PetSmart, the altercation intensified. After being asked to leave, the two women exited the store. Witnesses reported that Hampton then threw a drink bottle at Simpson’s vehicle, igniting further conflict. In a desperate attempt to de-escalate, Simpson and her daughter tried to get into their car. However, this only escalated tensions further.

The argument turned physical, with Simpson reportedly striking Hampton several times while demanding her to leave them alone. Amid the chaos, Simpson’s daughter stepped away, allowing Hampton the opportunity to produce a handgun. In a horrifying turn of events, Hampton fired three shots at Simpson.

Emergency crews rushed to the scene, and Simpson was transported to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

Dallas police tracked down Hampton several hours later. According to a police statement, she confirmed the events leading to the fatal shooting, claiming she was “just trying to get Simpson away from her.” Hampton is currently in custody at the Dallas County Jail, with her bond yet to be set.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities continue to gather information regarding the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.

This violent outburst over a seemingly trivial dispute raises pressing questions about conflict resolution and the escalation of everyday disagreements. The community is left reeling as they reflect on the grave consequences of such an altercation.

As developments unfold, residents are urged to stay informed on this tragic case.