The family of Theresa Jones, a California grandmother who authorities say was shot dead by one of her sons while she was inside her car outside the Fullerton Police Department, is now mourning as they remember her as “a deeply devoted Christian woman whose faith guided everything she did.”
“Our hearts are completely shattered as we share the devastating and sudden loss of our beloved Theresa Jones,” wrote Maurice Wesley in a GoFundMe campaign seeking to raise $5,000 to cover his mother’s memorial.
A joint press release from Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer and the Fullerton Police Department said Maurice Wesley’s younger brother, Emmanuel Wesley, 23, shot his 61-year-old mother in her parked car in front of the precinct on July 4.
Authorities say video surveillance shows Jones’ vehicle pulling up to the Fullerton Police Department at about 2:46 p.m. on July 4 with Jones in the driver’s seat. A person later identified as Emmanuel Wesley was observed getting out of the back seat after Jones slumped over. He has been accused of pushing his mother into the passenger seat before taking control of the car and driving it away. A week later, on July 11, the car was discovered in a Fullerton church parking lot. Jones was also found to have suffered from two gunshot wounds to her back.
“The death of any human being is a tragedy,” Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer said in a statement. “For someone to kill their own mother is another level of depravity. We will do everything we can to pursue justice for Ms. Jones and everyone who loved her.”
No motive has yet been established for Jones’ killing, but Emmanuel Wesley, who was arrested for his mother’s death, has pleaded not guilty. He is being held on no bail at the Orange County Jail. He has been charged with one felony count of murder and a felony enhancement for discharge of a firearm causing great bodily injury or death. He faces a maximum sentence of 50 years to life if convicted on all charges.
Police say Jones was reported missing on July 7 after she failed to pick up her grandchild and did not answer repeated calls.
Maurice Wesley said the “unimaginable act of violence” that took his mother’s life has “left a profound, empty space in the hearts of everyone who loved her.”
“Theresa was a deeply devoted Christian woman whose faith guided everything she did. She loved her family fiercely, always putting the needs of her children and grandchildren above her own. To know Theresa was to love her,” he wrote. “She was incredibly smart, funny, and possessed a vibrant, charismatic energy that instantly lit up any room she walked into. She brought so much joy and laughter into our lives that we affectionately nicknamed her ‘Cardi B.’”
He further explained that his family is seeking help through the GoFundMe campaign to honor the “beautiful life” Jones lived.
“We want to honor the beautiful life Theresa lived and the immense love she poured into the world. We are turning to our community for support during this incredibly painful time,” Maurice Wesley wrote.
“The funds raised will go directly toward giving Theresa the beautiful, dignified memorial service she deserves, and supporting our family as we navigate this heartbreak and seek justice. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your prayers, your kindness, and for helping us keep Theresa’s bright spirit alive.”
Contact: [email protected] Follow Leonardo Blair on Twitter: @leoblair Follow Leonardo Blair on Facebook: LeoBlairChristianPost
