In the late evening of August 14, 2022, a dispute that began over counterfeit money tragically cut short the life of 19-year-old Madison Deshun Wilfong in Jonesboro, Arkansas. The young Black man was discovered with a gunshot wound on a sidewalk in the 1000 block of Ferrell Drive. He was rushed to St. Bernards Medical Center, but his injuries proved fatal, and he was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival.
The events leading to his death started with a drug transaction where Wilfong was paid with fake currency.
The investigation into the shooting revealed that Wilfong had sold marijuana to Jaylon Sturdivant and was given a counterfeit $100 bill. Upon realizing the money was not real, Wilfong and three other individuals went back to the residence on Ferrell Street to confront the buyer. An argument broke out, and as one of Wilfong's friends attempted to enter the home, Sturdivant, who was 17 at the time, issued a warning that he would shoot if they did not leave. As Wilfong and his friends retreated towards the parking lot, shots were fired from the residence, and Wilfong was struck.
Following an investigation, the U.S. Marshals Service and the Jonesboro Police Department located and arrested Jaylon Sturdivant. Witnesses identified him as the person who fired the fatal shot. Sturdivant was charged in connection with the homicide. In September 2024, at the age of 19, he pleaded guilty to a charge of second-degree murder. A judge sentenced him to 15 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections for his role in Madison Wilfong's death.
Madison Wilfong was remembered as a caring and loving individual with a 'heart of gold.' He was a 2021 graduate of Jonesboro High School and was working at Peco Foods in Pocahontas at the time of his passing. He enjoyed spending his time playing video games, swimming, and being with his friends and, most importantly, his daughter. His death left a void in the lives of his family, including his parents and daughter.
