In the early morning hours of September 19, 2025, a report of vehicle tampering led Fairfax County police to a grim discovery in the Woodlawn area. There, in the 3400 block of Buckman Road, they found 21-year-old Jaylin Hartless, a male resident of Alexandria, on the ground next to his vehicle. He had sustained gunshot wounds to his upper body and was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators quickly determined that the shooting did not appear to be a random act.
Known to some as 'Paper Route,' Jaylin was described as a gentle soul with a love for sports and music. His family, reeling from the sudden and violent loss, remembered him as a loving brother, uncle, and devoted son whose light touched everyone he met. In the wake of his death, his family expressed profound grief, stating that having to bury their brother was the most shocking and sad thing they had ever faced.
The investigation into Jaylin's murder led to the arrest of three suspects from Alexandria. Thanks to tips from the community, detectives identified Tavon Ferguson, 31, Tavon Lang, 32, and Tennida Ferguson, 49. Lang was taken into custody on September 26 and charged with second-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Tavon Ferguson was also charged with second-degree murder and related firearm offenses. Tennida Ferguson was charged with accessory to murder after the fact, concealing evidence, and obstruction of justice. All three were held without bond.
