On October 29, 2023, 34-year-old Kelley Keith Jernigan Jr. of Plantersville, Texas, tragically lost his life during a party at a residence on Foxfire Drive. The incident occurred shortly after 1 a.m., stemming from an argument between Jernigan and another individual whom he had recently come to know. During the altercation, Jernigan was fatally shot and pronounced dead at the scene.
Law enforcement agencies, including the Grimes County Sheriff's Office, the Grimes County District Attorney's Office, the Texas Rangers, and the Montgomery County Crime Scene Unit, promptly initiated an investigation into the shooting. A person of interest was identified and has been cooperating with authorities. Officials have indicated that the case involves a potential self-defense claim and plan to present it to a grand jury for review. As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the incident.
Jernigan's body was transported to the Dallas County Medical Examiner's Office for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. In the meantime, investigators have been collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses to piece together the events leading up to the shooting. Authorities have urged anyone with additional information to contact the Grimes County Sheriff's Office or Grimes County Crime Stoppers to assist in the ongoing investigation.
Kelley Jernigan Jr. was remembered as a loyal friend with a kind heart and a dedicated family man. He is survived by his three children, parents, and siblings, among other relatives and friends. A memorial service was held in his honor at Memorial Oaks Chapel in Brenham, Texas, with visitation on November 7 and a funeral service on November 8.
