Sammie DeWayne Jones Jr., a 28-year-old African American man from Fort Worth, Texas, tragically lost his life on September 4, 2017. The incident occurred when Jones answered the door of his apartment to calm down Kevin Ashley Parnell, who was threatening and demanding to see Jones' roommate. After a brief verbal exchange, Parnell shot Jones in the face, leading to his death at the scene.
Following the murder, Parnell attempted to cover up the crime by deleting threatening messages he had
sent to Jones' roommate, burying his clothes, and disassembling the murder weapon before throwing it over an overpass. Parnell was later arrested and charged with murder. He was sentenced to 46 years in prison for the killing of Jones. Additionally, Parnell received a two-year sentence for tampering with evidence.
The case drew significant attention due to the nature of the threats and messages Parnell had sent prior to the murder, which included racist remarks and threats. The incident raised questions about whether it could be classified as a hate crime, although it was ultimately prosecuted as a murder.
The loss of Sammie DeWayne Jones Jr. at such a young age was a tragic event that deeply affected his family, friends, and the community. His graveside services were held on September 9, 2017, at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Henderson, Texas.
