My name is Kyla Head, and I am the daughter of Kimberly Shante Fields. I am requesting a formal review and reopening of the investigation into my mom’s death to ensure that the classification of her death is accurate and consistent across all official records.

Kimberly Shante Fields was found with a gunshot wound to her chest on January 7th, 2009. The DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office investigated and determined her death was “not to be a criminal matter,” while the Coroner originally ruled it a suicide. An autopsy later classified the manner of death as homicide, but the coroner’s report was never amended. The alleged firearm was not seized until approximately one year after the incident, after the case had already closed and no true bill was issued.

During discussions with the DeSoto County District Attorney’s Office, an investigator noted that reopening the case could carry a risk of double jeopardy. However, the alleged suspect was never formally charged, as the grand jury issued a no true bill. Multiple experts have also stated that, based on the characteristics of the alleged weapon, it would not have been physically possible for my mother to have inflicted the wound on herself. Despite these facts, the classification of death remains inconsistent across official records.

I am filing this petition not to assign blame, but to ensure that the investigative, coroner’s, and autopsy records are reviewed thoroughly, and that the manner of death is consistent and accurately reflects the documented evidence. 

Key Facts at a Glance:

• My mother was found with a gunshot wound to the chest
• The DC Sheriff’s Office determined her death “not to be a criminal matter”
• The Death Certificate was created prior to the autopsy being finalized and never amended
• Alleged weapon was seized one year after her death
• DA investigator mentioned double jeopardy (but no trial occurred)
• It is impossible for my my mother’s wounds to be self inflicted

Kimberly Shante Fields was a real person, not merely a conclusion within a file. Regardless of circumstance, every death warrants an investigation that is thorough, accurate, and consistent across all official records. She died as just 34 years old, missing the opportunity to achieve her dreams, raise her child, create more memories with her family, and continue growing as a human being. The least that my mother deserves is closure regarding how she died.

This is why I’m urging you to sign this petition. Your support helps ensure that my mother’s death is accurately documented, that inconsistencies in the official records are reviewed, and that proper closure is sought for her and her family. By signing, you are standing for transparency, accountability, and the integrity of the investigative process.