ARLINGTON, TX — A devastating tragedy unfolded Friday morning, July 11, 2025, at a local hair salon in Arlington, where authorities say a murder-suicide took the lives of two individuals previously involved in a romantic relationship.
According to the Arlington Police Department, officers responded to multiple 911 calls around 10:17 a.m. reporting an active shooting at a salon in the 7800 block of South Cooper Street. Upon arrival, they discovered 37-year-old William Todd Austin had been fatally shot multiple times. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The suspected shooter, 37-year-old Michelle Williams, entered the salon and reportedly opened fire on Austin, who was there as a customer. Witnesses inside the salon recounted a chaotic and horrifying scene as the shooting unfolded. Williams then attempted to flee the building, but when she noticed law enforcement arriving, she turned back inside and took her own life with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
She was rushed to a nearby hospital but was later pronounced dead.
Investigators have since uncovered that Austin and Williams had a previous romantic relationship, though the exact motive behind the shooting remains unclear. The Arlington Police Department continues to examine all aspects of the incident, including any history of domestic issues between the two.
Several other patrons and salon employees were present during the tragic event, but no other injuries have been reported. The swift response by law enforcement likely prevented further harm.
“This was a tragic and horrifying situation for everyone involved,” said an Arlington Police spokesperson. “Our hearts go out to the families affected and to those who witnessed this traumatic event.”
Authorities are urging anyone who may have additional information related to the case to come forward as the investigation remains active.
Those with information are encouraged to contact Arlington PD Detective Blake Ritchie at 817-459-5772 or via email at blake.ritchie@arlingtontx.gov.
This heartbreaking act of violence has left the Arlington community shaken, as friends, families, and witnesses struggle to come to terms with a tragedy that unfolded in broad daylight, in a place meant to offer comfort and self-care.
