A 24-year-old man is facing multiple felony charges after police say he robbed two elderly women during a morning walk in southwest Las Vegas and fatally shot one of them.
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police identified the suspect as Devion Teague. He was arrested one day after the shooting that killed Hester Johnson, an elderly woman described by investigators as hard of hearing.
The incident happened on May 12 in the 9000 block of West Rochelle Avenue near South El Capitan Way and West Flamingo Road.
Incident
According to an arrest report released by police, Johnson and a friend were taking their routine morning walk when they stopped to rest. Investigators said Teague approached the women and demanded their belongings while pointing a gun at them.
Police said Johnson, who was hard of hearing, responded by asking, “What?”
Investigators allege Teague then fired one shot, striking Johnson in the chest.
As Johnson collapsed, police say Teague took her satchel, which contained personal belongings including her phone, keys, and a water bottle.
The second woman, fearing she would also be shot, handed over her own satchel containing similar items before the suspect fled the area.
Investigation
Detectives used surveillance footage from nearby locations to track the suspect’s movements before and after the shooting.
According to police, video showed a vehicle parking near the scene before the robbery and then leaving the area at a high rate of speed shortly after the shooting occurred.
Investigators later identified Teague exiting the vehicle.
Police determined the car belonged to Teague’s wife and had previously been reported stolen. Authorities later found the vehicle abandoned in an alley.
Following the investigation, detectives located and arrested Teague. He was booked into the Clark County Detention Center.
Charges
Teague now faces several criminal charges related to the deadly robbery.
| Charge | Details |
|---|---|
| Open Murder with Deadly Weapon | Related to Johnson’s death |
| Robbery with Deadly Weapon | Two counts |
| Conspiracy to Commit Grand Larceny | Separate case |
| Grand Larceny of Motor Vehicle | Separate case |
Open murder charges in Nevada allow prosecutors flexibility to pursue varying levels of homicide charges as the case proceeds through court.
Police have not publicly released additional details regarding whether investigators believe the robbery was planned in advance or whether Teague acted alone.
Victim
Authorities identified the woman killed in the shooting as Hester Johnson.
Police said Johnson’s hearing impairment became a significant detail in the investigation because she may not have fully understood the suspect’s demands before the shooting occurred.
The surviving victim cooperated with investigators and provided details about the robbery after the suspect fled the scene.
Officials have not released further information about the surviving woman.
Community
The shooting has raised concerns about public safety in residential neighborhoods, especially involving crimes targeting elderly residents during routine daily activities.
Morning walks are common in many Las Vegas communities, particularly among retirees and older residents. The case has drawn attention because of the sudden violence involved in what investigators described as a street robbery.
Law enforcement officials continue urging residents to remain aware of their surroundings and report suspicious activity when possible.
Court
Teague is scheduled to appear in court on May 18.
Court proceedings are expected to determine whether additional charges could be filed as investigators continue reviewing evidence connected to the case.
Under Nevada law, defendants charged with open murder may later face charges ranging from second-degree murder to first-degree murder depending on prosecutorial decisions and evidence presented during the legal process.
As of now, police have not released information regarding a possible motive beyond robbery.
The investigation remains ongoing.
FAQs
Who was killed in the Las Vegas robbery?
Police identified the victim as Hester Johnson.
Who was arrested in the case?
Police arrested 24-year-old Devion Teague.
Where did the shooting happen?
The shooting occurred in southwest Las Vegas.
What charges does Teague face?
He faces murder, robbery, and theft charges.
When is the suspect due in court?
Teague is expected in court on May 18.
