Woman killed outside Dallas PetSmart after argument over not saying ‘thank you’
Woman killed outside Dallas PetSmart after argument over not saying ‘thank you’
The Brief
DALLAS — A Dallas woman was shot and killed outside a PetSmart on Tuesday following a confrontation that began over the suspect not saying “thank you” for a held door.
Cecilia Simpson, 41, was shot multiple times after the argument escalated into a physical altercation in the store’s parking lot. She was taken to a hospital, where she later died.
Dallas police have arrested 22-year-old Keona Zachyua Hampton, who is currently in the Dallas County Jail. Bond has not yet been set.
According to the arrest affidavit, Simpson and her 20-year-old daughter were leaving a nearby Five Below store when Simpson held the door open for Hampton, who did not acknowledge the gesture. The two women and Hampton exchanged words, and Simpson and her daughter drove to PetSmart while Hampton followed on foot.
Inside PetSmart, the argument continued, including an incident between Hampton and Simpson’s daughter. After being asked to leave the store, Hampton allegedly threw a drink bottle at Simpson’s car. A confrontation ensued in the parking lot, escalating into a physical fight. Surveillance footage and witness accounts show that Hampton then drew a black-and-silver handgun and fired three shots at Simpson.
Police later tracked Hampton to an apartment and, during a traffic stop, took her into custody. In an interview, Hampton admitted to arguing with Simpson, throwing the drink bottle, and shooting Simpson during the confrontation, claiming she was trying to protect herself.
A bystander, a 27-year-old ER nurse, witnessed the shooting and performed CPR on Simpson until paramedics arrived. She described the scene as harrowing, especially watching Simpson’s daughter beside her mother.
The investigation remains ongoing, and Hampton’s bond has not been set.
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