Jonathan Deshawn Breeding, a 23-year-old Black man from Waco, Texas, tragically lost his life on August 17, 2020. He was fatally shot near the area of N. 34th Street and Brooke Circle. Breeding was one of three victims targeted by Damarion T. Degrate, who used the dating app Grindr to connect with his victims. Breeding was the only victim who did not survive.
Degrate was arrested on August 21, 2020, initially for one of the non-fatal shootings.
He was later charged with the murder of Breeding and two other shootings that occurred on the same night. Degrate was indicted on a capital murder charge but eventually pleaded guilty to the lesser offense of murder, receiving a 40-year prison sentence. Additionally, he was sentenced to 20 years for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
The Waco Police Department urged the public to exercise caution when using dating apps, especially those catering to the LGBTQ+ community, and recommended arranging meetings in public venues. A GoFundMe scholarship was set up in Breeding's honor at Waco High School, where he graduated in 2015. The scholarship aims to support class presidents until the funds are depleted.
The tragic loss of Jonathan Deshawn Breeding has left a lasting impact on his family, friends, and the community. His vibrant personality and kind heart are remembered fondly by those who knew him.
