Kayla Jean Allen, 26, was shot and killed on May 6, 2024, in front of her residence in West Odessa, Texas. Deputies from the Ector County Sheriff’s Office arrived about 3:45 p.m. and found her deceased near the end of the driveway with multiple gunshot wounds to the upper torso; reports say the wounds may have been inflicted by a high-powered rifle.

The suspect was identified as Kayla’s 18-year-old cousin, Logan Allen. He fled in a silver Nissan and was stopped and taken into custody by Ward County deputies and Texas Department of Public Safety troopers near mile marker 80 on Interstate 20. An AR-style rifle was recovered from his vehicle. Logan confessed to the shooting upon detention and was charged with first-degree murder; bond was set at $1 million. Court records show prior contacts including deferred adjudication for attempted burglary of a habitation and warrants for failure to appear in an assault on a public servant case and for criminal mischief. Family members said Logan was believed to have mental health issues.

Kayla was described by her family as a creative, artistic young mother who cherished her two sons. Her family set up a GoFundMe to help with funeral costs and support for her children. The investigation into the circumstances and motive was ongoing.

If anyone knew Kayla, her family, or has information about what led to this shooting, please come forward.