Deadly Thanksgiving Ambush: Two Arrested for Capital Murder After Fort Worth Shootout Leaves Two Dead, One Injured

FORT WORTH, Texas — A Thanksgiving Day shootout in Fort Worth led to the arrest of two women on charges of capital murder following the incident that resulted in two fatalities and left another person severely injured. The violent confrontation has shaken the local community as details continue to emerge.

Tai Sanders, 17, and Paige Wheaton, 20, were taken into custody earlier this week. They are being held in the Tarrant County Jail without bond, facing allegations tied to murder and a planned armed robbery. Authorities disclosed that the shooting occurred at the 2800 block of Broadmoor Drive on the evening of November 28.

Upon receiving reports of gunfire, police arrived at the scene shortly before 10 p.m. They discovered 23-year-old J’Tavian Howard fatally wounded. The Tarrant County Medical Examiner confirmed the death of a second individual, 18-year-old Javon Gayton, at the location.

Investigations revealed that the tragic incident stemmed from a premeditated robbery against Howard. Sanders, Wheaton, and two unidentified males apparently orchestrated the plot. Official reports suggest that during the robbery attempt, gunfire was exchanged among the participants leading to casualties on both sides.

“The investigation uncovered that Sanders and Wheaton, in collusion with two accomplices, conspired through group texts to execute the robbery. The firearms exchange escalated, resulting in multiple victims,” stated a police spokesperson. According to officials, while Wheaton had the role of a getaway driver, the confrontation spiraled out of control before the accused could flee.

Emergency response teams transported Howard to a local hospital in critical condition, where he succumbed to his injuries. Gayton was pronounced dead at the scene. The third victim, whose identity has not been disclosed by the authorities, remains in critical condition at a nearby hospital.

The incident has sparked a larger conversation about the prevalence of gun violence and the need for community-based interventions. Local leaders are urging residents to support policing efforts and are advocating for increased funding for violence prevention programs.

This event marks a somber chapter for the community of Fort Worth as it grapples with the realities of crime and its devastating impact on families and neighborhoods. The police continue their thorough investigation, promising transparency throughout the process to provide justice for the victims and their families.