A heartbreaking tragedy in Nevada has left a family devastated after an elderly woman was allegedly shot and killed during a morning walk with her sister. The surviving sister says she held her sibling in her arms as she died after a suspected robber opened fire during the attack.
Police say the suspect, 24-year-old Devion Teague, is now facing murder and robbery charges in connection with the deadly incident.
Elderly Woman Shot During Morning Walk
According to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, the shooting happened on May 12 near South El Capitan Way and West Flamingo Road in Las Vegas.
Authorities said two elderly sisters were taking their usual morning walk when a masked man approached them and demanded their belongings.
Police allege that when one of the women hesitated, the suspect shot her before taking property from the other sister and fleeing the scene in a vehicle.
The victim was later identified as 75-year-old Hester Johnson.
Sister Describes Final Moments
Hester Johnson’s sister, 78-year-old Iredell Washington, later spoke publicly about the horrifying moment she watched her sister die.
According to local reports, Washington cradled Johnson in her arms after the shooting and begged her not to leave her.
She recalled crying out:
“Don’t leave me here all by myself.”
Washington said she screamed in panic as her sister bled from the gunshot wound.
The emotional account has deeply affected people across the Las Vegas community.
Sisters Shared Daily Walks Together
Washington explained that she and Johnson were extremely close and spent time together every day.
She described their relationship by saying:
“We were like best friends.”
According to Washington, the sisters regularly woke up early each morning to go walking together and discuss their plans for the day.
Their normal daily routine suddenly turned tragic during what police describe as a violent robbery attempt.
Victim Remembered for Helping Others
Family members and friends say Hester Johnson spent much of her life helping people in the community.
Washington said her sister volunteered with Opportunity Village, a nonprofit organization that supports people with intellectual disabilities.
According to her sister, Johnson learned sign language so she could better communicate with and assist those she worked with.
Washington said:
“She just loved helping people.”
The victim is now being remembered as a caring and compassionate woman devoted to serving others.
Suspect Arrested After Investigation
Police later identified the suspect as Devion Teague, 24.
Authorities said investigators located and arrested him during the homicide investigation.
According to police, Teague was already facing separate criminal charges involving conspiracy to commit grand larceny of a motor vehicle and grand larceny of a motor vehicle.
He is now charged with:
- Open murder with a deadly weapon
- Two counts of robbery with the use of a deadly weapon
Court records show his next court hearing is scheduled for July 1.
Family Wants Justice
While speaking about her sister’s death, Washington said she knows Johnson would want her to stay strong despite the pain.
However, she admitted the loss has been extremely difficult.
She said:
“I just want justice for her.”
The emotional statement reflects the grief still being experienced by Johnson’s loved ones after the shocking killing.
Community Concerned About Violent Crime
The tragic shooting has also raised concerns among Las Vegas residents about violent robberies targeting vulnerable individuals.
Many community members have expressed sadness that an elderly woman lost her life during what should have been a peaceful morning walk.
The case continues to draw attention as prosecutors move forward with serious charges against the accused suspect.
