Brandon Haywood Sr., 28, was killed on July 1, 2025, outside an apartment complex in Ferguson, Saint Louis, Missouri. Family members described him as a devoted partner and father of three with a kind, giving nature and an infectious smile.

Police say an argument reportedly took place involving Haywood and 26-year-old Daron Wilson, who is identified as the ex-boyfriend of the woman Haywood was dating. The confrontation was said to have calmed briefly after Haywood went inside an apartment, but he was allegedly shot after returning outside. Authorities say 29-year-old Damon Hampton fired first and Wilson then also began shooting. Haywood sustained nine gunshot wounds; investigators recovered 14 shell casings at the scene and later found matching ammunition in a vehicle belonging to Wilson’s new girlfriend.

Both Wilson and Hampton were charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action. Investigators reportedly used text messages Wilson sent to his ex-girlfriend about her relationship with Haywood as part of their case. A fundraising campaign was started to help Haywood’s family with funeral expenses and support for his children.

If anyone has information about the shooting or knew Brandon, please share what you know.