Mary Goss, a 39-year-old woman from Garland, TX, tragically lost her life on November 15, 1989. She was murdered by Daniel Joe Hittle, who was involved in a feud with her. Hittle, who had a history of violence, including the 1973 murders of his adoptive parents, was on parole at the time of the killings.
On the night of the murder, Hittle attended a party at Mary Goss's home. After leaving the party, he went to his house, where he had an argument with his wife.
He then drove to Goss's home with a 20-gauge shotgun. When Garland police officer Gerald Walker stopped Hittle for speeding, Hittle shot him in the chest. He then proceeded to Goss's home, where he killed Mary Goss, her boyfriend Richard Cook Jr., 36, her friend Raymond Gregg, 19, and her 4-year-old daughter Christy Condon.
Hittle was arrested after a chase and gunfight with police officers. He was charged with multiple counts of capital murder but was only tried for the murder of Officer Walker. Hittle was convicted and sentenced to death. He was executed by lethal injection on December 6, 2000.
The tragic events of that night left a lasting impact on the community and highlighted the devastating consequences of unresolved conflicts and violence.
