BREAKING NEWS: Woman Found Shot to Death in Mesquite Home — Police Searching for Long-Term Partner as Primary Suspect
Mesquite, TX – October 15, 2025 — A tragic scene unfolded in a quiet Mesquite neighborhood this week after a woman was found dead inside her home. According to Mesquite Police, 42-year-old Keisha Hillard was discovered with a fatal gunshot wound following a welfare check prompted by concerned family members.
The incident occurred on Saturday, October 12, 2025, at approximately 4:18 p.m., when officers responded to a call regarding Hillard’s wellbeing. Her family, unable to reach her, feared something was wrong and contacted authorities.
When officers arrived at the residence on Avis Circle, they received no response from within the home. After repeated attempts to make contact, police forcibly entered the property—only to find Hillard already deceased.
Victim Identified, Suspect on the Run
Investigators quickly began piecing together the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting. According to police, Hillard suffered a single gunshot wound, which is believed to be the cause of death. The scene was secured, and homicide detectives were called in to lead the investigation.
Shortly thereafter, police identified 42-year-old Christopher Whitt, Hillard’s long-term partner, as the primary suspect in what they are now investigating as a homicide.
Authorities have not yet disclosed what led them to identify Whitt as the suspect, but sources familiar with the investigation say the relationship may have involved a history of domestic issues, though no public records have confirmed prior police involvement.
Whitt’s current whereabouts are unknown, and he is considered armed and dangerous. The United States Marshals Service has now joined the manhunt and is urging anyone with information on Whitt’s location to come forward immediately.
Community Shocked by Violence
The killing has sent shockwaves through the local community, where neighbors described Hillard as a kind, quiet woman who mostly kept to herself.
“She was always polite. I’d see her in the mornings going to work. I can’t believe something like this could happen just a few houses down,” said one resident who lives nearby but wished to remain anonymous.
Local advocacy groups have responded swiftly to the news, highlighting the ongoing dangers of domestic violence. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, making the timing of Hillard’s death particularly sobering.
“This is yet another devastating reminder that domestic violence can turn deadly,” said Tasha Bell, a counselor and advocate for Safe Haven of Tarrant County, a domestic violence prevention organization. “We need to do more as a community to identify the signs, intervene early, and offer survivors a safe way out.”
Police Seek Public’s Help
The Mesquite Police Department and U.S. Marshals are working together to locate Whitt, and they are asking the public to remain vigilant.
Whitt is described as a Black male, 42 years old, and approximately 6 feet tall. He may be driving a dark-colored sedan, though officials have not released a license plate number or confirmed the make and model of the vehicle.
Anyone who sees Whitt or has information about his possible location is urged not to approach him and instead to contact authorities immediately. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the Mesquite Police Department tip line or directly to the U.S. Marshals Service.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation remains active, and officials have not ruled out additional charges pending the outcome of the autopsy and further forensic analysis. Detectives are also interviewing friends, neighbors, and relatives to piece together the timeline leading up to the killing.
While no motive has been formally established, investigators are focusing heavily on the nature of the relationship between Hillard and Whitt. Sources say the couple had been together for several years, but it is unclear if they were living together at the time of the incident.
Remembering Keisha Hillard
Family and friends are now mourning the loss of Keisha Hillard, describing her as a devoted mother, sister, and friend who didn’t deserve such a violent end.
“She had a beautiful heart and always put others before herself,” said a close family member in a brief statement to local media. “All we want now is justice for Keisha.”
A vigil is being organized in her memory later this week, with details expected to be announced via social media and community bulletin boards.
How You Can Help
If you have any information related to this case or the whereabouts of Christopher Whitt, please contact:
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Mesquite Police Department: (972) 285-6336
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U.S. Marshals Service Tip Line: 1-877-WANTED2
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Submit an anonymous tip online: www.usmarshals.gov/tips
Do not attempt to engage with the suspect. Whitt is considered potentially dangerous and should only be approached by law enforcement.
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