Takara Glenn Hightower, a 34-year-old African American woman from Atascocita, Texas, was tragically killed on September 22, 2022. Takara was in the process of filing a domestic violence complaint against her husband, Navy Senior Chief Recruiter Gregory L. Hightower, when the incident occurred. At around 1:30 p.m., Takara was being interviewed by Naval Criminal Investigative Service agents at their home regarding allegations of domestic violence against her husband.
During the interview, Gregory Hightower burst into the home and opened fire, fatally shooting Takara while she was holding their baby. One of the NCIS agents was also injured in the shooting.
Gregory Hightower managed to flee the scene and drove to a relative's apartment in northwest Houston. A few hours later, he was involved in a shootout with sheriff's deputies and was killed. The baby Takara was holding and a toddler who was at the home during the incident were released to family members. The injured NCIS agent was taken to a local hospital and was listed in stable condition.
Authorities had previously responded to the Hightower residence for domestic violence allegations. In July, Takara accused Gregory of hitting her, but no charges were filed against either of them as Gregory also accused her of hitting him. Two days before the fatal shooting, Takara called the police again to inquire about filing a restraining order against her husband.
Takara's death left her six children, aged 12 months to 6 years, without both parents. Her family and friends are grieving the loss of a devoted mother who was described as a fearless lioness and protective mama bear. Takara's mother and sisters are now caring for the children. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and authorities continue to gather more details about the events leading up to the tragic shooting.
