Arlington, TX — A chilling and heartbreaking incident occurred Monday afternoon at the Salon and Spa Galleria, located at 7807 South Cooper Street, Suite 115, when Todd Austin, 39, a well‑known credit repair business owner, was fatally shot while receiving a haircut. The woman who entered the salon and shot him was later identified as the mother of his child.
According to Arlington Police, the shooting began when the woman—believed to be in a domestic relationship with Austin—entered the salon during his appointment and shot him at close range. When officers arrived, they found Austin unresponsive, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The woman then turned the gun on herself. She was transported to a nearby hospital but sadly later succumbed to her self-inflicted wounds.
Authorities confirm this tragic incident is being investigated as a domestic-related murder–suicide. Detectives are piecing together what led to the horrific event, which unfolded during what should have been a routine haircut.
A Beloved Community Member Taken Too Soon
Todd Austin was a respected entrepreneur and mentor in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex. As the founder of Credit Champs, Austin dedicated himself to helping individuals and small businesses master credit repair and secure funding—building countless personal and professional success stories along the way.
Described by friends and clients as passionate, compassionate, and endlessly optimistic, Austin was a fixture in the community—known for extending guidance and support to anyone in need.
“He was so generous with his time and expertise,” shared a close associate. “He wasn’t just coaching credit—he was coaching people to believe in themselves again.”
A Family in Devastation
The other woman involved, a mother in her late 30s, shared a child with Austin. While her identity has not been released, police confirm they were in a domestic partnership. The relationship ends tonight in unfathomable tragedy, leaving behind a child, family, and community grappling with grief and shock.
Investigating Domestic Violence: A Deadly Warning Sign
Authorities caution that this crime underscores the seriousness of domestic violence, which can escalate into fatal outcomes even in public settings. Arlington PD is urging anyone experiencing relationship conflict—especially involving jealousy or controlling behavior—to seek help through domestic violence hotlines, counseling services, and emergency assistance before tensions spiral beyond control.
Community Response & Next Steps
- Arlington Police Department is urging witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
- Counseling and support services are being made available for staff at the salon, family, and community members affected by this trauma.
- Memorial services for both victims are expected to be held soon; details will be shared as they become available.
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If you or someone you know is dealing with domestic violence or crisis situations, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, or connect with local mental health professionals for help.
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