08/13/2026
Police Reveal Details of Tragic Plant City Murder-Suicide That Claimed Four Lives
Full details on Winter Haven Daily
Police Reveal Details of Tragic Plant City Murder-Suicide That Claimed Four Lives:
The Plant City Police Department has completed its investigation into the deaths of four individuals during the early morning hours of May 3, 2026. The case has been ruled a murder-su***de.
During the early morning hours of Sunday, May 3, 2026, 27-year-old Hailey Dempsey shot and killed her mother inside their home. Hailey Dempsey then gathered her three daughters and left the residence on foot. Shortly before 7:00 a.m., she concealed herself and her children behind a patch of bushes and trees in the front yard of 303 W. Tever Street.
At that location, Dempsey shot and killed her 4-year-old and 4-month-old daughters. She then attempted to shoot and kill her 2-year-old daughter but missed. Dempsey then turned the firearm on herself and died by su***de.
“This is a tragedy that has deeply affected two families, our community, and the men and women of the Plant City Police Department. While today’s findings provide answers and investigative closure, they cannot lessen the tremendous loss or pain caused by what occurred. Our hearts remain with the Dempsey and Deboe families, especially the surviving child whose life has been forever changed. As a community, I hope we continue to surround them with compassion, respect their privacy, and remember that help and hope are available for those who may be struggling.”
— Chief Richard Mills, Jr.
