Inset: Jalil Jones (GoFundMe). Background: The 800 block of Mt. Zion Road in Jonesboro, Georgia, where Jalil was fatally shot (Google Maps).
A 27-year-old man is accused of fatally shooting a 16-year-old boy in Georgia after the teen reportedly tried to defend a friend from bullying.
Joshua Drew Clinton has been charged with murder, cruelty to children, aggravated assault and additional offenses in connection with the death of Jalil Jones. According to the Clayton County Police Department, officers were called at about 6 p.m. on June 19 to the 800 block of Mt. Zion Road in Jonesboro, roughly 15 miles south of Atlanta, after reports of a shooting.
When officers arrived, they found Jalil with gunshot wounds. He was taken by emergency medical personnel to a hospital, where he later died. Police said Clinton was identified as a suspect on June 23 following what they described as an “extensive investigation.”
Clinton was arrested with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service and booked into the Clayton County Jail. Authorities also said Clinton was involved in a separate shooting after Jalil’s death.
Investigators have released few details about what led to the gunfire, saying only that an “ongoing dispute” involving multiple people escalated into a violent confrontation. A family friend of Jalil’s, however, offered more insight into the moments before the shooting.
Lyniece Wilkes told local ABC affiliate WSB that Jalil had been trying to help a friend when he was shot.
“He was outside trying to help and protect a young boy who needed help at the time,” Wilkes told the station.
Wilkes started a GoFundMe to help with funeral costs. She wrote that Jalil had just started a job working for his uncle and was looking forward to earning his driver’s permit.
“Jalil’s bravery and compassion touched everyone who knew him, and his loss has left us devastated,” she wrote.
Wilkes described the victim’s personality in an interview with local Fox affiliate WAGA.
“Jalil was all around bubbly dude. Bright in personality, funny had you mad at one minute and laughing next,” Wilkes told the outlet.
Clinton remains in the Clayton County Jail without bond. His next court date is set for July 22.
