Jessica Lynn Joiner, a 34-year-old Caucasian woman, tragically lost her life on April 2, 2022, in Collinsville, Illinois. Born on November 24, 1987, in St. Louis, Missouri, she was the daughter of Jeff L. Joiner and Julie Joiner. Jessica had traveled from her home in Altadena, California, to Madison County, Illinois, to assist her younger sister, Jamie Joiner, in moving out of the residence she shared with her boyfriend, Adam Cobb.
Authorities reported that Adam Cobb, a 32-year-old man, fatally shot both Jessica and Jamie outside their home in rural Madison County. The incident occurred around 10:30 a.m. as Jamie was preparing to leave the residence. Investigators believe Jamie made a 911 call moments before the attack, as dispatchers heard a woman's screams followed by gunshots. Jessica, who had flown in specifically to help her sister, was caught in the violence. Cobb shot both women in the head and neck region before fleeing the scene.
Law enforcement quickly identified Cobb as the suspect and issued a regional alert. Within 45 minutes, authorities located his vehicle in Montgomery County, Illinois. A pursuit ensued, lasting approximately 40 minutes, before Cobb's vehicle became partially disabled on U.S. Route 51 near East 800 North Road in Christian County. When confronted by police, Cobb exited his vehicle and pointed a firearm at a state trooper. The trooper, a veteran officer with 26 years of experience, fired his weapon, striking Cobb. He was transported to a nearby hospital with serious, life-threatening injuries.
Jessica Joiner, a dedicated administrative assistant for the Valley County Water District in California, was survived by her husband, Eric David Escott, whom she married in 2018, as well as her stepchildren, Hazel Jane Escott and Atticus Walter Escott. Her sudden and violent death, alongside her sister Jamie, left family and friends devastated. A life celebration for both sisters was planned for a later date.
