Woman cradled dying sister in her arms after she was gunned down during morning walk, cried out 'don't leave me here all by myself,' cops and sibling say – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Pexels)
Las Vegas – Two sisters who walked together every morning found their routine shattered when a gunman approached them near South El Capitan Way and West Flamingo Road. The older of the pair watched as her sibling was shot after hesitating to hand over belongings. She then held the 75-year-old in her arms through her final moments.
The Sisters’ Daily Bond
Iredell Washington, 78, and her younger sister Hester Johnson shared more than blood. They talked about plans for the day during those early strolls and leaned on each other as close companions. Johnson volunteered as a sign language interpreter at Opportunity Village, a nonprofit that supports people with intellectual disabilities in the Las Vegas area. Washington later said her sister loved helping others and learned the skill specifically to serve that community.
How the Attack Happened
On May 12, a 24-year-old man identified by police as Devion Teague confronted the women during their walk. He demanded their belongings while wearing a mask and mumbling his words. Johnson hesitated, and Teague shot her, according to Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department reports. Washington handed over her items, and the gunman fled in a vehicle.
The Sister’s Final Plea
Washington cradled Johnson as she lay bleeding and pleaded for her not to go. She later told investigators and reporters that she screamed for her sister to stay and not leave her alone. The two had been inseparable in their daily habits, and Washington described the loss as one that no amount of tears could reverse. She expressed a clear wish for justice in the case.
Charges and Next Steps
Teague now faces one count of open murder with a deadly weapon and two counts of robbery with the use of a deadly weapon. He was already under investigation in a separate case involving stolen vehicles. His next court appearance is scheduled for July 1. Police identified him through the ongoing probe into the shooting.
