DALLAS, TX – A tragic incident unfolded at a Dallas shopping center, sparked by a seemingly trivial exchange that escalated into a fatal confrontation. The altercation began when Cecilia Simpson, 52, reportedly became upset with Keyona Hampton, 22, for not expressing gratitude after Simpson held the door open for her.
According to arrest records, the dispute, which began at a Five Below store, continued as both women moved to a nearby PetSmart. Witnesses recounted that Hampton urged Simpson and her 20-year-old daughter to continue the argument outside, where the situation turned violent.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing gunshots moments after the argument resumed in the parking lot. Despite attempts by Simpson and her daughter to deescalate by getting into their car, the confrontation intensified, leading Hampton to draw a firearm and shoot Simpson.
The suspect fled the scene, but surveillance footage captured her image, vehicle, and license plate, aiding Dallas police in her arrest hours later. Hampton reportedly waived her Miranda rights, admitting to the verbal and physical altercation and claiming she acted in self-defense.
Simpson was transported to a hospital where she later succumbed to her injuries. Her daughter, who witnessed the event, remained by her side throughout, her cries for her mother haunting those present.
A witness, a 27-year-old nurse who wishes to remain anonymous, described the chaos and her attempts to administer CPR alongside two other nurses. “The daughter’s screams were heart-wrenching,” she said, reflecting on the traumatic scene.
The incident, rooted in what began as a minor courtesy, has left a community in shock and a family grieving the loss of a beloved mother.