Reopening: the Evans-Jones case and the continued call for accountability and transparency

Things changed.

We hear this phrase when it comes to something big; at times, the "big deal" is a positive game-changer. And there's times it's far from it.

On August 13, 2023, the lives of Mr. Eric Jones and his wife of more than 30 years, Mrs. Jalyne Evans-Jones, changed.

On this life-changing day, after taking her sister to the airport (as she visits due to the passing and ceremony of a family member), the Jones family recalls another incident during the week. While understanding of their new neighbors moving in, they consistently are in violation of the silent hours of their apartment complex. Despite their calls to the police (non-emergency) and complex management, the week is full of chaotic energy and activity.

They decide to professionally and politely speak with their neighbor at the time, Alejandro Querales-Morales, to see what they are able to do to lower the volume. As a response, their neighbor fires his weapon at them (through the door), causing injury to Mrs. Evans-Jones midsection, but even worse, her right hand and wrist (which are essentially incapacitated). As they share their story, to call such an action disconcerting is an understatement (as shared in the video segment below):

In the aftermath of working through the shock of what takes place, the focus is on the health of Mrs. Evans-Jones along with the overall process of their case. Ranging from questions and concerns process-wise, communication, and other related items, to their dismay, their case is dismissed. With concerns including (but not limited) to violation of victim's rights to the overreaching questions of why and how, to be in a state of dismay and disappointment is an understatement (as noted in the following segment):

As a result of said questions, the Gwinnett County chapter of the NAACP picks up their case. In speaking with the chapter president, Edward Paul, he provides added insight in their dealings with officials and the larger lack of transparency in their decision-making given the evidence at hand on top of what is shared in their June 27, 2025 press conference at the Gwinnett Justice Center (click HERE for the WSB-TV recap of the press conference) as noted in the video segment below:

As part of the current call to action, appeals to Governor Kemp (click HERE for contact information) and Attorney General Chris Carr (click HERE for contact information) are being made to reopen the case and have an independent investigation. Likewise, mailing them (206 Washington St at Suite 203/State Capitol in Atlanta, GA 30334) and emailing Attorney General Carr (agcarr@law.ga.gov) can help generate awareness and activity as there are clear and present questions and concerns of accountability and transparency.

Despite the challenges present, their hope is through their efforts, it's more than just about them, but making sure a negative precedent is not set so others in the county, state, and beyond do not have to deal with what they are working through.

With a continued call for community and political engagement, the reopening of their case is a step in getting closer to seeking and receiving a measure of justice for their family and the greater good.

Notes: You may watch the full interview and related segments on our playlist (click HERE to watch) to learn more about this case.