Tempe, Arizona – A deadly workplace shooting shocked a Tempe shopping plaza Monday morning after police say a husband, frustrated over being unemployed and struggling financially, opened fire on his wife and her colleague at the Little Caesars where she worked.
Authorities allege that 27-year-old Benjamin Visser shot and killed his 21-year-old wife, Mary Visser, and her 32-year-old co-worker, Shaquille Simmons, in what investigators describe as a violent outburst fueled by jealousy, financial strain, and controlling behavior.
A nearby business owner recalled hearing rapid gunfire.
“Bang, bang, bang, bang,” said nail spa owner Kennedy Long, who then saw “one girl fall down.”
What Police Say Happened
According to investigators, surveillance video captured the moments leading up to the attack. The footage reportedly shows the couple walking together toward the Little Caesars just as Simmons approached to begin his shift. Police say that as Simmons reached the entrance, Visser suddenly pulled out a gun and opened fire, then turned the weapon on his wife.
Authorities say Mary Visser managed to call 911 after being shot but could not communicate before her husband grabbed the phone.
“I just pulled a gun and I shot two people,” Visser allegedly told the dispatcher. “Please help me.”
Police say Visser continued firing at his wife even after she collapsed to the ground.
Both victims died from their injuries at the scene.
A Morning Argument Turned Deadly
Visser allegedly told detectives that he and his wife had argued earlier that morning about finances, his lack of employment, and other ongoing issues. He also admitted that he had become convinced—without evidence—that his wife was having an affair with Simmons.
Court documents say Visser later acknowledged that he had no proof of any relationship between the two, a claim echoed by Simmons’ family.
“They had no romantic relationship whatsoever,” said Lerron Simmons, Shaquille’s brother. “They’re co-workers.”
History of Controlling Behavior
Police records reveal troubling details about Visser’s behavior toward his wife. Investigators say he admitted to being controlling of Mary Visser’s movements, actions, and social interactions, including where she could go, who she could speak to, and whether she could drink alcohol.
Witnesses also told officers that Visser frequently sat outside the restaurant during her shifts, watching her through the windows.
The night before the shooting, employees say he caused a disturbance and was removed by a manager. Witnesses reported that he became enraged after seeing Mary speaking with Simmons outside and slammed a door hard enough that staff thought the glass would shatter.
Community Reaction
Friends and relatives of the victims have been left devastated by the sudden loss.
“It’s just really sad,” said Kalife Gentry, Simmons’ cousin. “Words can’t even explain all the emotions and the grief that we’re feeling as a family.”
Mary Visser leaves behind a six-month-old child.
Arrest and Charges
Officers arrived quickly and took Benjamin Visser into custody without resistance. He is now charged with two counts of murder and is being held on a $2 million cash-only bond.
The Broader Issue of Domestic Violence
Cases like this highlight how financial stress, unemployment, and controlling behavior can escalate into severe domestic violence. Law enforcement officials frequently warn that patterns of isolation, surveillance, and jealousy are common indicators of escalating risk.
Anyone experiencing domestic abuse in the U.S. can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org for confidential help.
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