Arlington, TX – A tragic act of violence unfolded Friday at the Salon and Spa Galleria in Arlington, Texas, leaving two lives lost in what police are investigating as a murder-suicide rooted in a domestic dispute.
Todd Austin, a respected entrepreneur and founder of several business ventures in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, was fatally shot while receiving a haircut at the salon. Authorities say the suspected shooter, T’Mone Michelle Williams, with whom he reportedly shared a child, entered the business armed and shot Austin before turning the weapon on herself.
Emergency responders arrived swiftly at the scene, but Austin was pronounced dead on-site. Williams was transported to a local hospital in critical condition and later died from her injuries.
The heartbreaking incident has shaken both families and the broader community. Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to the fatal confrontation and are asking anyone with information to come forward.
Todd Austin was widely known across Texas and beyond as the founder of Credit Champs, a company dedicated to empowering individuals through financial literacy and credit education. He also launched The Vendor Mansion and served as CEO of Entrepreneur Blueprint, both of which focused on helping aspiring business owners build generational wealth.
Originally from Kansas City and a graduate of Westport High School, Todd had made Dallas his home. Friends and colleagues have described him as a visionary leader, a generous mentor, and a devoted father who was deeply passionate about community building and financial empowerment.
The death of T’Mone Michelle Williams adds a second layer of tragedy. While the motives behind her actions are still being determined, those close to her are left mourning her loss and searching for answers in the aftermath.
The couple’s child, now left without both parents, remains at the center of this tragedy — a painful reminder of the far-reaching consequences of domestic violence and unresolved conflict.
As tributes pour in on social media, loved ones and community members are sharing memories of both individuals, expressing sorrow and calling for greater attention to mental health resources, conflict resolution support, and early intervention.
Funeral arrangements for Austin and Williams have not yet been publicly announced. Their families have asked for privacy as they process the sudden and devastating loss.
This incident has prompted renewed conversations around the signs of domestic strain and the importance of community support systems. It serves as a somber call to action to protect lives before conflict turns to catastrophe.
Both Todd Austin and T’Mone Michelle Williams leave behind a legacy — one defined by ambition, impact, and complexity. The community now grieves their passing while striving to find healing and prevent future heartbreak.