Cody Bell, 35, was killed April 1, 2025, during a violent confrontation at a phone repair store in Helotes, Texas. Bell, an assistant manager and aspiring music artist described by family and friends as loyal and compassionate, was confronted by a 47-year-old customer, Kenneth McKnight, who became aggressive over service. Witnesses said McKnight revealed a firearm, struck Bell in the head with a motorcycle helmet, and then shot Bell multiple times in the throat.

Another employee retrieved a gun and ordered McKnight to leave; when McKnight refused, that employee fired and fatally shot McKnight. Both Bell and McKnight were pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have classified this as a workplace shooting and say the second employee is cooperating with investigators; no charges had been filed against that employee as of the last update while the investigation continues.

Bell’s father, Aaron Bell, and others described the profound grief his death has caused; a fundraiser was organized to support the family. If anyone witnessed the incident or has additional information about what happened at the store that day, please come forward.