Valerie Hackett, a 24-year-old woman from Longview, Texas, tragically lost her life on January 30, 2020. Her death was the result of a retaliatory shooting carried out by Brandon Keith Harris. Harris, who had been previously arrested for assault and the unlawful discharge of a firearm at the same apartment complex, sought revenge against the residents and employees there.
Upon entering the management offices, Harris shot Valerie Hackett multiple times at point-blank range and attempted to shoot the apartment manager who managed to escape. Harris then continued to shoot at onlookers and tried to locate other individuals he held responsible for his prior arrest.
The Longview Police Department quickly apprehended Harris shortly after the shooting. During his arrest, Harris admitted to the shooting and expressed regret only for not killing more people. He was later found guilty of capital murder and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The trial was prosecuted by the Office of the Attorney General’s Criminal Prosecutions Division due to a conflict of interest in the Gregg County District Attorney’s Office.
The case drew significant attention due to the nature of the crime and the swift justice that followed. Valerie Hackett's family and friends have expressed deep sorrow and have been vocal about their grief and the impact of her loss on their lives. The community has rallied around them, offering support and condolences.
This tragic incident highlights the devastating consequences of retaliatory violence and the importance of swift legal action in such cases. Valerie Hackett's memory lives on through the love and remembrance of those who knew her.
