Dallas Community Mourns Beloved Business Owner Killed in Targeted Shooting at The Shops at RedBird
The Dallas community is reeling after a beloved local business owner was shot and killed Tuesday afternoon inside The Shops at RedBird, a tragic incident that has shaken the normally peaceful shopping center.
Authorities responded to reports of a shooting around 4 p.m. at the 3600 block of West Camp Wisdom Road, where they found a man suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite the efforts of Dallas Fire-Rescue, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Dallas County Medical Examiner’s Office later identified the victim as 53-year-old Jaime Alejandro Rokkett, the well-known owner of Cookies ‘N Smoothies, a popular eatery located within the mall.
Jaime was a familiar face to regular visitors and tenants of The Shops at RedBird, often seen greeting customers with a warm smile and friendly conversation. His sudden and violent death has left those who knew him devastated.
According to Dallas police, the shooting stemmed from a verbal altercation between Rokkett and a woman he knew personally. Authorities said the incident escalated when the suspect, 43-year-old Rashonda Lowe, pulled out a firearm and shot Rokkett.
Sources familiar with the investigation revealed that the victim had previously filed a restraining order against Lowe, suggesting a history of conflict between the two. Police believe the act was targeted and not a random act of violence.
Following the shooting, Lowe fled the scene but later turned herself in to Arlington Police. She was subsequently transferred into the custody of Dallas police and charged with murder. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing, and further details, including a motive, have not yet been released.
The owners of The Shops at RedBird issued a public statement, expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy:
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic incident that occurred today at The Shops at RedBird. Our thoughts are with everyone affected during this incredibly difficult time.”
They emphasized that this was a targeted incident between individuals known to one another and not indicative of a broader safety concern at the mall. The statement continued:
“The safety of our shoppers, employees, and tenants is always our highest priority… We will be reviewing all aspects of this incident closely and taking any additional steps necessary to maintain a safe and welcoming environment.”
The mall’s management also expressed gratitude to first responders and their own security team, who acted quickly to secure the scene.
Community members and local leaders have expressed an outpouring of sympathy for Rokkett’s family and colleagues. Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Dallas) wrote on X (formerly Twitter),
“My heart is with the loved ones of the victim, and I’m grateful to law enforcement for acting quickly.”
Friends and customers remember Jaime Rokkett as more than just a business owner. He was known for supporting local youth, mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs, and serving the community with kindness. His business, Cookies ‘N Smoothies, was not just a food stop—it was a place of connection, built with love and dedication.
As the investigation continues, grief and reflection settle over RedBird and beyond. The sudden loss of such a vibrant and caring figure is a blow to the fabric of the community. Tributes have started to appear near the entrance of the eatery, with flowers, notes, and candles marking the space where Rokkett’s passion once thrived.
His memory, colleagues say, will not be forgotten. Plans are reportedly underway for a community vigil to honor his life and contributions. For many, the hope is that justice will be served swiftly—and that his legacy of kindness and entrepreneurship will endure.
