The investigation into the tragic 2023 murder of Jackson State University (JSU) student Jaylen Burns has seen a significant breakthrough. Authorities have confirmed that four individuals have been taken into custody and formally charged in connection with the case. This development follows months of intensive and coordinated efforts by law enforcement to bring justice for the victim and provide closure to the heartbroken JSU community.
Remembering Jaylen Burns: A Promising JSU Senior
Jaylen Burns was a well-regarded member of the Jackson State University community and a native of Chicago, Illinois. At the time of his death, he was a 21-year-old senior majoring in industrial technology.
- Fraternity and Service: Jaylen was an ambitious young man dedicated to service, serving as a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (Delta Phi Chapter at JSU). He was also the president of the C100 Chapter at JSU, an affiliate of the 100 Black Men of America.
- Legacy: His mother, La’Trice Wright, stated that the community service Jaylen performed with his fraternity would be his lasting legacy. A mural was later unveiled in his honor in Jackson, Mississippi. His father, Jason Burns, described him as “not a violent kid”.
The Night of the Tragedy at University Point Apartments
The fatal shooting of Jaylen Burns occurred on Sunday, October 15, 2023, during JSU’s homecoming weekend.
- The Incident: The shooting took place at the University Pointe Apartment Complex. Initial reports indicated that Burns was shot after attempting to intervene and break up a fight at the complex.
- Response: Burns was transported to the hospital after police responded to reports of shots fired, but he succumbed to his injuries. The tragedy led to the cancellation of classes at Jackson State University the following Monday.
The Long Road to Arrests
The recent arrests were executed by the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI) after months of coordinated effort. The individuals charged are Marquis Scales (24), Ziqua Amos (21), Jamison Kelly Jr. (23), and Elisha Brown (23).
Prior Developments: The investigation involved earlier arrests and subsequent releases of different individuals due to insufficient evidence, including a separate person, Joshua Brown, who was later released after evidence suggested he was nearly 100 miles away at the time of the shooting.
Charges: Scales and Amos were each charged with murder. Kelly was charged with accessory after the fact, and Brown with accessory after the fact and hindering prosecution.
With the formal charges now levied against the four suspects, the case moves into its next critical phase through the judicial system.
Source of Information: WJTV 12 News YouTube Short –
You can view the original news report here: https://youtube.com/shorts/HA9P_26Bmlc?si=t09ttzQavfBRuT3z