SPRING, Texas — A quiet neighborhood in north Harris County was shaken Friday morning after a deadly shooting left one woman dead and her stepdaughter facing murder charges. Authorities say 27-year-old Dakayla Dailey has been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of her stepmother, 69-year-old Kathy Brown, inside their home on Hannover Forest Drive in Spring.
According to the Harris County Constable Mark Herman’s Office, deputies responded to the 21300 block of Hannover Forest Drive around 10:45 a.m. after multiple reports of gunfire in the area. A pool maintenance worker servicing the backyard told investigators he heard several shots coming from inside the residence and immediately called 911. When deputies arrived, they discovered two women inside the home. Brown was found in the kitchen with multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Dailey, who remained at the location, was detained without incident. Investigators say early findings suggest that Dailey became angry after learning her stepmother had no money, which may have led to the violent confrontation. Captain Aaron Strain confirmed that no one else was home during the shooting and that the two women were believed to be the only residents living in the house.
Following her arrest, Dailey was booked into the Harris County Jail, where she faces a murder charge. Detectives are continuing to collect evidence, including witness statements, electronic communications, and social media activity. Officials noted that posts believed to be linked to Dailey from a day before the shooting appeared erratic and troubling, though they have not yet confirmed any connection to the motive.
The tragic killing has left the Spring community reeling. Neighbors described Brown as a kind and gentle woman who often greeted others warmly and kept to herself. “This neighborhood is normally peaceful,” one resident said. “It’s heartbreaking to know something like this could happen right next door.” Authorities also clarified that initial reports identifying the women as grandmother and granddaughter were incorrect—the relationship was confirmed to be stepmother and stepdaughter.
Constable Mark Herman called the incident a devastating example of family conflict turned deadly. “This is an incredibly sad situation for everyone involved,” Herman said. “Our hearts go out to the victim’s loved ones and the entire community. We urge anyone struggling with anger or family issues to seek help before tragedy strikes.”