James Jones III, a 26-year-old male from Port Arthur, Texas, tragically died on January 17, 2017. He was a lifelong resident of Port Arthur and a 2008 graduate of Memorial High School. James was known affectionately as "Champ Joe" and was a member of First Christian Faith. He is survived by his parents, James W Jones II and Rosemary Jones, and several siblings.
On the day of his death, James was found slumped over the steering wheel of a motor vehicle at 6030 Alpine Circle in Beaumont,
Texas. He had been shot, and bits of potato were found in his hair and in the vehicle. Potatoes are sometimes used as a homemade silencer. Frederick King, who was also shot and found nearby, identified Damarcus Deshun McGhee as the shooter. McGhee later admitted to shooting both King and Jones.
Damarcus Deshun McGhee, a 21-year-old male, was arrested and charged with the murder of James Jones III. On January 3, 2018, McGhee pleaded guilty to the murder charge and was sentenced to 40 years in prison by Judge John Stevens. Additionally, McGhee received an extra 20 years for aggravated assault for shooting Frederick King during the same incident.
The case was investigated by the Beaumont Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Mike Laird. Prosecutor Laird emphasized the impact of violent deaths on the community and the importance of resolving conflicts without resorting to violence.
James Jones III's death highlights the devastating consequences of gun violence and the importance of community efforts to prevent such tragedies. His family and friends continue to remember him fondly, and his case serves as a reminder of the need for justice and peace in communities affected by violence.
