In the early morning hours of August 5, 2023, the life of a 12-year-old Black / African American male named Markee Jones was tragically cut short in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The young boy, described by his mother as smart, always smiling, and a happy kid who loved playing basketball and being outdoors with his friends, was at his grandmother's home in the North End neighborhood.
He and his brother were staying overnight, a common occurrence as his mother mentioned her mom often had her grandkids over. An uncle was also present in the house but was reportedly asleep when the incident occurred.
Just before 5 a.m., police were called to the residence on the 200 block of Stinson Street with a report of a juvenile male being shot. Upon arrival, officers found Markee suffering from what appeared to be a gunshot wound. He was rushed to Regions Hospital, but tragically, he did not survive his injuries. The devastating event marked the 22nd homicide in St. Paul for that year. Family members, who gathered in the alley behind the home, expressed their belief that the shooting was a terrible accident. They stated that a loaded gun had been left unattended inside the house.
In the immediate aftermath, law enforcement took Markee's 14-year-old brother into custody. He was held at the Ramsey County Juvenile Detention Center on suspicion of manslaughter in connection with his younger brother's death. This development brought more anguish to the grieving family, who insisted that the shooting was accidental and called for the 14-year-old's release. They also publicly pleaded for the owner of the firearm to come forward and take responsibility.
A few days later, the Ramsey County Attorney's Office announced that the 14-year-old brother would be released from custody. The office stated that after a careful review of the evidence presented by law enforcement, there was not sufficient evidence to proceed with a charging determination at that stage. The case was returned to the Saint Paul Police Department for further investigation, leaving the family with unanswered questions and a profound loss. A candlelight vigil was held where family and friends gathered to honor the memory of a boy described as a "sweet boy" who brought positivity to everyone around him.
