In the winter of 2017, the life of James Edwin Melton Sr., a 36-year-old man from Alexandria, Louisiana, was tragically cut short in a senseless act of violence. On the evening of February 23rd, Melton was seated in his truck outside a convenience store at the intersection of Lee Street and Evergreen Street in Alexandria, waiting for a friend. It was a routine moment that would soon turn fatal, leaving a family and community to grapple with a sudden and devastating loss.
Two men
approached Melton's vehicle with the intention of robbing him. During the commission of this crime, one of the individuals pulled out a firearm and shot James Melton in the head. The two assailants then fled the scene, leaving Melton fatally wounded. His death was officially recorded on February 24, 2017, sending ripples of shock and grief through his circle of loved ones who remembered him for his generous heart and mischievous smile.
The Alexandria Police Department launched an investigation into the homicide. Their efforts led to the identification and arrest of a suspect. Eddie Ray Jackson Jr., a Black male, was charged in connection with the murder. The legal process that followed saw the initial charge of first-degree murder amended to second-degree murder and attempted armed robbery with a firearm.
In April 2021, the case against Eddie Ray Jackson Jr. went to trial in Rapides Parish. After hearing the evidence presented by the prosecution, a unanimous jury found Jackson guilty as charged. The conviction brought a measure of closure to Melton's family, who had waited patiently for justice. Subsequently, Eddie Ray Jackson Jr. was sentenced to life in prison for the second-degree murder of James Melton, ensuring he would be held accountable for his violent actions. He also received a consecutive sentence for the attempted armed robbery with a firearm enhancement. While court documents indicated that two men were involved in the incident that led to Melton's death, details regarding the second individual's identity or legal proceedings have not been widely reported.
