ARLINGTON, TX — July 11, 2025 – A quiet Friday morning turned tragic in Arlington, Texas, as a murder-suicide unfolded inside a bustling local hair salon, leaving two people dead and a community in shock. Authorities confirmed that 37-year-old William Todd Austin and 37-year-old Michelle Williams lost their lives in what investigators are describing as a domestic violence incident that escalated into a fatal confrontation.
According to Arlington Police Department officials, the harrowing event occurred just before 10:00 a.m. at a salon located in a busy shopping plaza off South Cooper Street. Witnesses reported hearing a series of gunshots followed by screams, prompting a flood of 911 calls. Officers responded within minutes to the distressing scene.
Upon arrival, law enforcement found William Todd Austin suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite emergency efforts, Austin was pronounced dead at the scene. Michelle Williams, who was also located inside the salon with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition. She was later pronounced dead.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the two had a prior romantic relationship that had recently ended. Friends and family members indicated that there had been ongoing tensions and unresolved issues between the pair. While the exact details and motive are still under investigation, authorities believe Michelle Williams entered the salon armed, confronted Austin, and shot him multiple times before turning the weapon on herself.
Police Chief Al Jones addressed the media during a press conference later in the afternoon, expressing sorrow for the lives lost and the trauma endured by witnesses and bystanders. “This was a senseless act of violence that claimed two lives and deeply impacted everyone present. Our hearts go out to the families of both individuals, the salon employees, and customers who witnessed this tragic incident.”
Several salon workers and clients were present during the incident. Many were treated on the scene for shock and trauma, while others have since come forward for counseling services provided by victim advocacy teams.
Michelle Williams was a longtime stylist at the salon and was reportedly well-known and liked by many clients. William Todd Austin, described by friends as friendly and outgoing, had recently been attempting to rebuild his life after the breakup. Neither had any known history of violent behavior, although close friends mentioned previous disputes and emotional distress following the relationship’s end.
The tragedy has sparked conversations across Arlington about the silent struggles of mental health, domestic disputes, and the devastating consequences of unresolved emotional turmoil. Local advocacy groups, including Women’s Haven and SafeHaven of Tarrant County, have since renewed calls for public awareness and prevention efforts surrounding domestic violence and mental health support.
Mayor Jim Ross also issued a statement following the event:
“We mourn the loss of two lives in our city today. Arlington stands with the families and friends affected by this unspeakable tragedy. We must continue to strengthen our commitment to mental health resources and support networks for individuals in crisis.”
Authorities continue to investigate the full sequence of events leading up to the murder-suicide, including reviewing surveillance footage and gathering testimonies from eyewitnesses. Police urge anyone with additional information to come forward as they work to complete their investigation.
Crisis counselors remain on standby for those impacted by the event, and a candlelight vigil is being planned for the victims by members of the community.
In the aftermath of such a heartbreaking event, Arlington joins together in mourning — hoping for healing, reflection, and renewed dedication to preventing similar tragedies in the future.
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