Jaquez Eugene Jackson, a 17-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on December 26, 2015, in Saint Petersburg, Florida. The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. when suspects opened fire on a car he was riding in with other teenagers. The vehicle pulled up next to Jackson's car and fired multiple shots before speeding away. Jackson and another 17-year-old male, whose identity has not been disclosed, were both hit by the gunfire.
They were subsequently dropped off in an alley near a home on 3rd Avenue South, where someone called 911 to report their injuries. Both victims were rushed to a local hospital, but unfortunately, Jackson succumbed to his injuries, while the other teen was listed in stable condition.
The shooting is believed to have been a drive-by, and investigators are working to determine the motive behind the attack. Some neighbors speculated that the incident might have been related to a turf war between neighborhood groups. The vehicle the victims were in was later found at a different location, and it was reported to be stolen. Community leaders, including Reverend Kenneth Irby, have urged the public to come forward with any information about the perpetrators, emphasizing the need for collective action to combat gun violence.
Despite the efforts of the community and law enforcement, no arrests have been made in connection with Jaquez Eugene Jackson's murder. The investigation is ongoing, and police are still trying to piece together the events leading up to the shooting. The tragic death of Jackson, who was the seventh teenager killed in Saint Petersburg due to gun violence in 2015, has sparked calls for peace and an end to the violence that has plagued the community.
