Motive Uncovered in Arlington Double Homicide: Five Suspects Charged with Capital Murder
Investigation Reveals Financial Dispute at Center of Deadly Birthday Party Shooting
ARLINGTON, TX — Arlington police have announced a major breakthrough in the tragic double homicide case that claimed the lives of 19-year-old Dayton Allen and 18-year-old Alexis Tyler during a birthday celebration at an Airbnb last November. After months of intensive investigation, authorities have uncovered the motive behind the fatal shooting and have charged five individuals with capital murder.
The deadly incident unfolded at a short-term rental property where friends had gathered to celebrate a birthday. As the night progressed, a violent ambush occurred, cutting short two promising young lives. Dayton Allen and Alexis Tyler were both fatally shot, sparking a high-profile investigation that drew public outcry and deep grief across the community.
According to Arlington Police, the attack was not random. Detectives now say the motive was rooted in a financial dispute involving Dayton Allen. Disturbingly, one of the five suspects, 26-year-old Diamond Curttie, is a relative of Allen and allegedly played a central role in orchestrating the deadly scheme.
The suspects now charged with capital murder include:
- Diamond Curttie, 26
- Chrisaveon Whitted, 18
- Eddie Walker Jr., 19
- Demarian Owens, 21
- Shannon Steele, 20
Authorities say all five were involved in planning and carrying out the attack, though each may have had differing levels of participation. According to law enforcement, evidence suggests the group coordinated to confront Allen at the party under the guise of a social gathering—then executed a targeted shooting that resulted in the deaths of both Allen and Tyler.
“This wasn’t a random act of violence,” said Arlington Police Chief Al Jones. “It was calculated. And it was fueled by betrayal, greed, and an utter disregard for life. Our detectives worked tirelessly to peel back the layers of deception in this case.”
The investigation faced significant early challenges, particularly regarding witness cooperation. Many attendees of the party were initially unwilling or hesitant to speak with investigators, fearing retaliation or simply overwhelmed by the trauma of the event. Despite the obstacles, detectives persisted, using forensic analysis, digital evidence, and eventually gaining critical witness testimony that led to arrests.
Chief Jones commended his department’s homicide division, noting their resolve in ensuring the victims’ families received the justice they deserve.
“We never gave up. And thanks to the efforts of our officers, families of Dayton and Alexis now have a clearer picture of what happened and who is responsible.”
Alexis Tyler, an 18-year-old recent high school graduate, was described by friends and family as a vibrant, kind-hearted young woman with dreams of becoming a nurse. Dayton Allen, 19, was a known presence in his community, remembered for his charisma and potential. Both victims had their futures stolen in a matter of moments, and their families have continued to advocate for accountability and awareness.
In a statement issued through their attorney, Alexis Tyler’s family said,
“Alexis was an innocent soul caught in a violent storm she had nothing to do with. We are grateful for the progress in the investigation and continue to pray for strength and justice.”
Dayton Allen’s mother called the revelation of betrayal by a family member “a second heartbreak.”
“It’s not just the loss of my son. It’s knowing someone who should have loved and protected him helped take him from us.”
The suspects remain in custody, and capital murder charges carry the possibility of life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty, depending on prosecutorial decisions. The case is expected to proceed to trial in the coming months.
As Arlington continues to heal from the aftermath of the tragedy, police urge anyone with further information to come forward. They also encourage community members to reach out for emotional support as the case moves through the judicial system.
This case serves as a tragic reminder of how personal disputes can escalate into devastating violence, and how vigilance, perseverance, and community cooperation are essential in ensuring justice is served. The memories of Dayton Allen and Alexis Tyler now live on in the determination of a city to never forget—and never stop fighting for the truth.