Crime
Victim Fatally Shot at Red Bird Mall in Dallas Identified
DALLAS, TEXAS — A well-known small business owner was tragically shot and killed Tuesday afternoon inside The Shops at RedBird, according to mall officials and Dallas police.
The victim has been identified as Jaime Rokkett, owner of the popular cookie and smoothie shop Cookies ’N Smoothies, located within the shopping center.
Dallas police officers responded to a shooting call around 4:00 p.m. in the 3600 block of West Camp Wisdom Road.
Upon arrival, they located Shepard with a gunshot wound. Despite life-saving efforts from Dallas Fire-Rescue, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators say the suspect and victim were acquainted, and the shooting appears to have been a targeted incident, not a random act of violence.
After fleeing the scene, the female suspect later turned herself in to authorities at the Arlington Police Department, where she was taken into custody without further incident.
The Shops at RedBird confirmed the identity of the victim, and news of his passing has sparked an outpouring of grief from the local business community.
Brandon Denson, a long-time mentee and friend of Jaime — affectionately known as “Mr. Jay” — shared a heartfelt tribute:
“One of my mentors, Mr. Jay, has tragically been shot and killed at his cookie business. I’m deeply hurt by this news. Mr. Jay taught me a great deal about the shirt printing business. We’ve had a professional relationship since 2016, and when he shifted to focus on his cookie business, I bought some of his equipment. We worked on multiple creative projects, and he was always encouraging and kind. Just last week, we shared a conversation about life and business. His loss is devastating and deeply personal.”
Denson noted Shepard’s positive influence extended to his family and community, adding that “Mr. Jay was always kind to my children and supported me unconditionally. This is a terrible loss.”
The ownership of The Shops at RedBird issued the following statement:
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic incident that occurred today at The Shops at RedBird. Our thoughts are with everyone affected during this incredibly difficult time.
This was an isolated, targeted event involving individuals known to one another — not a random act of violence. We are fully cooperating with local law enforcement in their investigation and remain committed to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for our shoppers, employees, and tenants.
The Shops at RedBird has a robust security program, including 24/7 patrols, surveillance systems, and close collaboration with law enforcement. We will continue to review and strengthen our safety protocols in response to this incident. We are grateful to our first responders and security personnel for their swift action.”
U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Dallas) responded to the shooting on social media, writing:
“My heart is with the loved ones of the victim, and I’m grateful to law enforcement for acting quickly.”
The identity of the suspect and potential charges have not yet been released.
The Dallas Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact authorities.
The Dallas community continues to mourn the loss of a respected entrepreneur and mentor whose presence left a lasting impact on many.
Crime
Watch: Jeffrey Epstein survivors release video calling on Congress to release the Epstein files
Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse have released a powerful public message calling on Congress to declassify and release all documents connected to Epstein, his crimes, and those who may have enabled or participated in his trafficking network.
In the video statement, survivors emphasize that across five presidential administrations, they have waited without answers, transparency, or meaningful accountability.
More than three decades after Epstein’s crimes first came to light, they say critical information remains sealed, redacted, or otherwise inaccessible to the public — including to those who suffered directly as a result of his actions.
“For thirty years, we have waited in silence and uncertainty,” the message states. “We deserve the truth. The world deserves the truth. The time has come to bring the secrets out of the shadows.”
The group is urging lawmakers to support the Epstein Files Transparency Act, a proposed measure that would require the federal government to release investigative records, court materials, and relevant agency files associated with Epstein, his associates, and public institutions connected to the case.
Advocates argue that releasing the full record will not only expose systemic failures but also help prevent future exploitation by revealing networks, complicity, and loopholes that enabled Epstein to operate with impunity for decades.
In their call to action, survivors are asking the public to contact their elected officials and demand full transparency.
The video concludes with a unified plea:
“We are demanding the release of all Epstein files. The time is now. Call your member of Congress and tell them to vote YES on the Epstein Files Transparency Act.”
The movement continues to gain momentum nationally, with growing public support and increasing pressure on lawmakers to act.
Further updates will be provided as legislative developments unfold.