Crime
13-Year-Old Charged with Murder in Fatal Shooting of 18-Year-Old Demetrious Braud in Orange
Witnesses, including a woman who identified herself as Braud’s aunt, described the chaotic scene as investigators began their work.
The Orange Police Department is investigating a fatal shooting that occurred on Monday afternoon in the Roselawn neighborhood, resulting in the death of 18-year-old Demetrious Braud of Beaumont.
Authorities have confirmed that a 13-year-old boy has been charged with murder in connection to the incident.
Officers responded to reports of a shooting at approximately 3:45 p.m. on Monday, January 15, 2025, in the 400 block of Hydrangea Avenue, near Bluebonnet Drive.
Upon arrival, they discovered Braud’s body near a home in the area.
Witnesses, including a woman who identified herself as Braud’s aunt, described the chaotic scene as investigators began their work.
Following an extensive investigation, police detained several individuals at the scene for questioning, including a woman who was led away in handcuffs.
Through interviews and evidence collected, detectives developed sufficient information linking the 13-year-old suspect to the fatal shooting.
Detectives obtained a directive to apprehend the juvenile suspect and took him into custody without incident at approximately 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, January 16, 2025.
This tragic incident has left the community shocked, particularly given the young age of the suspect.
The case is still under investigation as authorities work to determine the circumstances that led to the shooting.
The Orange Police Department is encouraging anyone with additional details regarding this case to come forward. Tips can be submitted directly to the department or anonymously through Crime Stoppers of Southeast Texas at 409-833-TIPS (8477).
The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed due to his age, is being held on a charge of murder.
Under Texas law, juvenile offenders are subject to specific legal procedures, and the case will proceed through the juvenile justice system.
This devastating event serves as a stark reminder of the impact of gun violence on families and communities. Authorities have vowed to pursue justice for the victim while continuing their efforts to maintain public safety.
CHESTER COUNTY, Pa. — What was meant to be a night of celebration turned into tragedy when gunfire erupted during Homecoming festivities at Lincoln University, one of the nation’s oldest Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The Saturday evening shooting left one person dead and six others injured, casting a shadow over what was supposed to be a weekend of pride and unity.
Officials have identified the deceased victim as 25-year-old Jujuan Jeffers of Wilmington, Delaware, who suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the head. Authorities confirmed that all six surviving victims—aged between 20 and 25 years old—are expected to recover.
In a Sunday afternoon update, officials named 21-year-old Zecqueous Morgan-Thompson as one of the suspects involved in the shooting.
He is currently being held at the Chester County Prison on $25,000 bail, charged with carrying a firearm without a license, according to court documents.
Authorities emphasized that current evidence does not suggest the suspects attended the event with the intent to carry out a mass shooting.
Instead, investigators believe the violence stemmed from a dispute or altercation that escalated into gunfire.
The shooting occurred in the parking lot of the International Cultural Center, where a tailgate celebration was taking place following Lincoln University’s Homecoming football game.
The area was filled with tents, tables, and students celebrating the evening when chaos suddenly erupted.
“We set this out to be a time to celebrate the legacy of Lincoln University, the first Historically Black HBCU,” said University Police Chief Marc Partee. “Devastated. If there was another word to describe that, one more impactful, I would use it — but devastated is a start.”
Lincoln University officials have announced that classes will be canceled on Monday, October 27, designating the day as one of “healing and reflection.” Plans for a remembrance event honoring Jujuan Jeffers are underway.
Chester County Detectives are leading the investigation, with assistance from the FBI and Pennsylvania State Police.
Authorities strongly believe multiple shooters were involved.
K-9 units are assisting in evidence collection, and forensic teams are processing what remains a large and active crime scene.
Investigators are conducting witness interviews and reviewing extensive surveillance and cellphone video footage.
Anyone with video evidence, no matter how minor it may seem, is urged to contact 1-800-CALL-FBI to receive a secure upload link for submission.
The Chester County District Attorney’s Office continues to coordinate with local and federal partners to piece together the sequence of events and determine all parties involved.
Officials have assured the community that the investigation remains active and ongoing, and additional verified updates will be released as they become available.