Florida Mother Accused of Killing Her Mother and Two Daughters in Tragic Shooting

A devastating shooting in Plant City, Florida, has left a family shattered after 27-year-old Hailey Dempsey was accused of killing her mother and two of her young daughters.

The incident occurred on May 3, 2026. Authorities say Dempsey fatally shot her 55-year-old mother, Valerie DeBoe, before killing two of her daughters, who were just 4 years old and 4 months old.

Dempsey also allegedly fired at her 2-year-old daughter, but missed. The child survived and is now being cared for by relatives.

In the days leading up to the shooting, police had reportedly been called to the home three times within two days. One of those calls involved an argument between Dempsey and her husband, Jay Dempsey, reportedly concerning pornography found on his phone.

However, authorities have not confirmed that dispute as the motive for the killings. The police chief indicated that the incident appeared to involve mental-health issues, though the investigation was continuing.

Jay Dempsey was investigated by authorities and cleared of suspicion. He was not arrested or charged in connection with the killings.

The tragedy has raised painful questions about the warning signs that preceded the shooting and whether additional intervention could have prevented the deaths. The repeated police responses to the home in the days beforehand are now part of the broader investigation.

For relatives, the loss is particularly devastating: Valerie DeBoe and two young children were killed, while the surviving 2-year-old is left without her mother and sisters.

Authorities continue examining the circumstances surrounding the shootings and the events that preceded them. Any conclusions about motive or responsibility will ultimately depend on the evidence gathered during the investigation and the legal process.

Source: NY Post