Keisha Hilliard dies in fatal Mesquite shooting.

Keisha Hilliard dies in fatal Mesquite shooting.
Fatal Mesquite shooting death of Keisha Hilliard.

Investigators are piecing together the events of a Sunday afternoon in Mesquite, Texas, following a welfare check that tragically ended in violence. The initial call to authorities was made by Christopher Whitt, the suspect, who reported that Whitt had placed his 3-year-old son and his newborn daughter with Hilliard, his partner, while he attended to an urgent matter. Whitt remains at large as of the latest reports.

The fatal shooting investigation began when officers entered Hilliard’s residence on Avis Circle and discovered her deceased body, the victim of a gunshot wound. Hilliard, a respected businesswoman and mother of five, was described as a cherished friend and family member to many. Her home now stands empty, with Halloween decorations left unwrapped on the exterior.

Evidence from a nearby neighbor’s security camera recording showed law enforcement personnel on the scene shortly after 4:15 p.m. Sunday. The primary suspect identified by detectives is 42-year-old Christopher Whitt, who was romantically involved with Hilliard and was the father of her recent newborn. The shooting occurred while the couple’s two young children were inside the home; fortunately, they were unharmed and are with family members.

Hilliard’s daughter, Keyabre Spain, expressed concern after speaking with her mother earlier that morning, unaware of the tragedy that was soon to unfold. Authorities are urging Whitt to surrender to avoid potential charges.