As North Texas communities prepare for the Fourth of July holiday weekend, the family of a Fort Worth woman killed by gunfire two years ago is calling for responsible celebrations and raising awareness about gun violence.
Latasha Hymond, a 39-year-old business owner, mother, and makeup artist, died during a July 4 gathering in the Eastland neighborhood of Fort Worth. According to the Fort Worth Police Department, Hymond was shot in the crossfire at the intersection of Castleman Street and Comanche Street.
Her cousin, Pastor Felton Jenkins, said the loss continues to affect his family deeply. He wears a necklace with Hymond’s face as a daily reminder of her. Jenkins described Hymond as lovable and noted that her memory stays with him constantly.
The trauma of the incident has changed Jenkins’ approach to the holiday. He stated that he withdrew from social interactions for the past six months following the shooting. Instead of attending cookouts or fireworks displays this year, Jenkins plans to remain at home. He emphasized that he will not join crowds or get-togethers.
Jenkins is using his personal experience to advocate for an end to gun violence, particularly during holiday periods. He hopes that sharing his family’s story will prevent other families from experiencing similar loss. He stated that while gun violence will eventually cease, the community has not forgotten Hymond.
Local authorities are increasing public safety measures ahead of the busy holiday weekend. Dallas City Manager Kim Tolbert encouraged residents to make smart decisions and celebrate responsibly. Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux announced that officers will have an increased presence in targeted areas and warned that celebratory gunfire will not be tolerated. Comeaux stated that random gunfire is unacceptable and urged residents not to shoot guns into the air.
