Arrest Made In Texas A&M-Commerce Shootings

COMMERCE, TX — One person has been arrested in connection with the shooting at Texas A&M Univeristy-Commerce that left two sisters dead on Monday, the university said.

The university said 21-year-old Jacques Dshawn Smith had been arrested on the charge of capital murder. Smith is not a student at the university and is believed to be the ex-boyfriend of the elder sister killed in the shooting, the school said.

One of the victims was identified as 19-year-old Deja Matts, of Garland. Matts was a freshman at the university who was pursuing a degree in public health. Her elder sister, 20-year-old Abbaney Matts, was also killed in the shooting but she was not a student at the university.

The 2-year-old child injured in the shooting was the son of Abbaney Matts, the university said. He was treated and released to family members.

The shooting took place at the university's Pride Rock Residential Center.

The university police said the shooting appears to be a targeted and isolated event.

Officials did not provide further information on the shooting.

Classes at the university were canceled and are set to resume on Thursday. The school also made counselors available at the Halladay Student Services building or via phone at 903-886-5145.

University president Mark Rudin issued the following statement on the shooting:

Our hearts and prayers go out to the family, friends and students impacted by today’s tragic event. During this difficult time, we encourage our Lion family – students, faculty, staff and friends – to remain supportive of each other.

Since this is an active investigation multiple law enforcement agencies are still conducting, we cannot speak further to the specific circumstances surrounding this isolated incident at this time. We assure you that we are taking measures to ensure your continued safety on campus and to provide services and support to you all.

Our priority is for the safety of each and every member of our community. To that end, we have increased our staff presence in residential communities, and our University Police Department (UPD) has increased patrol around campus. As a result of these safety measures, Pride Rock will reopen at 10:15 p.m. CST Monday evening.

Our Counseling Center has expanded services to any students needing guidance or support during this time. Our Residential Living and Learning office has also arranged with local community partners to provide housing for any students temporarily displaced.

Below is a list of contacts for students and families needing additional services:

University Police Department (903) 886-5868 / 911 (on campus)

Residential Living and Learning (903) 886-5797 – main

(903) 468-2597 – Pride Rock residents

Counseling Center (903) 886-5145

I encourage you to take care of yourself, to utilize any university services that you may need, and to communicate with others that may need comfort during this time. As we unite in mourning today’s event, I know the resolve our Lion family exhibits in times of crisis. Thus, I am confident we can unite in demonstrating that resolve together.

Mark Rudin

President