She was killed along side Arlington Police Officer Jillian Smith who responded to a domestic violence call at Carter's home. Officer Smith died after Nettles shot and killed her while trying to protect Carter's 11-year-old daughter. Nettles later committed suicide. The daughter escaped unharmed.
Arlington police and the Arlington Police Association are coordinating a fund to benefit Carter's child. Anyone interested in donating to the Ciani Jennings fund is able to do so through the Arlington Federal Credit Union, or by mailing donations to the Arlington Police Association – Ciani Jennings at P.O. Box 27, Arlington, TX 76004.