Aaron Wayne Ainsworth, a 20-year-old male from Bronson, TX, tragically lost his life on April 4, 2021. His body was discovered at an abandoned house off U.S. Highway 96 in San Augustine County, north of Bronson. The investigation revealed that Ainsworth was last heard from on April 3rd, 2021.
Authorities arrested two suspects in connection with Ainsworth's death: David Whitehead, 31, from Nacogdoches County, and Bryan Johnson, 30, from San Augustine County. According to an affidavit, an unnamed witness informed investigators that Whitehead gave the witness a pair of bloodstained blue jeans and a shotgun while picking up Johnson. The witness also identified Ainsworth with Whitehead on April 3rd.
San Augustine County Sheriff Robert Cartwright described the incident as "senseless" and stated that Ainsworth lost his life over "foolishness". Both Whitehead and Johnson were charged with murder and taken into custody. The case was investigated by the Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office and the Texas Rangers.
The tragic death of Aaron Wayne Ainsworth has left a lasting impact on his friends and family. Ainsworth was known for his love of playing PlayStation, fishing, and listening to music. He attended Harmony Baptist Church and was remembered as a young man full of life and laughter.
In August 2021, David Whitehead pleaded guilty to the murder of Aaron Wayne Ainsworth. The case brought attention to the importance of community safety and the devastating consequences of violence.
Ainsworth's family and friends continue to honor his memory and cope with the grief of losing such a vibrant young man.
