DALLAS, Texas — The Dallas community is mourning the tragic loss of 41-year-old Cecilia Simpson, who passed away on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, following a violent altercation with 22-year-old Keona Zachyua Hampton. What began as a simple act of courtesy — holding a door open — quickly escalated into a deadly confrontation, leaving family, friends, and neighbors in shock and grief.
According to the Dallas Police Department, the incident occurred outside a PetSmart store near Wheatland Towne Crossing. Simpson reportedly held the door open for Hampton, who did not acknowledge the gesture. The encounter escalated into a verbal dispute and then a physical altercation, during which Simpson was shot multiple times. Emergency responders rushed her to a nearby hospital, but she was pronounced deceased shortly thereafter.
Authorities confirmed that Hampton was taken into custody and booked into the Dallas County Jail. Bond has not been set, and the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident remains ongoing.
“This is a senseless act of violence that has shaken our community,” said Dallas Police Chief Robert Gonzalez. “Our detectives are working diligently to gather all relevant facts and ensure justice is served. We encourage anyone with information to come forward to assist in the investigation.”
Neighbors described the incident as shocking, noting that such violence is rare in the normally quiet area. “It’s terrifying to think that a simple act like holding a door could end this way,” one resident said.
Family, friends, and the wider community have expressed profound grief over Simpson’s death, remembering her as a kind, caring, and generous woman. “Cecilia always put others first,” a friend shared. “She was a bright light in everyone’s life, and it’s heartbreaking that her life was cut short in such a senseless manner.”
The Dallas Police Department continues to collect evidence, interview witnesses, and review surveillance footage to determine the full sequence of events. Officials have not released additional information regarding the motive or circumstances leading up to the confrontation.
The tragic passing of Cecilia Simpson at the hands of Keona Zachyua Hampton underscores the devastating impact of violence in everyday interactions and serves as a somber reminder to the community about the importance of de-escalation and caution in conflicts.
As the city mourns, family and friends are planning memorials and vigils to honor Simpson’s life, while the investigation continues. Anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact the Dallas Police Department to aid in their ongoing efforts.