A grieving Florida mother is speaking out after her 16-year-old son was fatally shot by an off-duty sheriff’s deputy during a reported shoplifting incident, describing the teen as “a bright beautiful light” whose life was full of promise.
Naporsha Jones Spruill said she wants the public to remember her son, Jairus Jones — known to family and friends as JJ — for his personality and aspirations rather than the circumstances surrounding his death.
“My son Jairus, who everyone knew and loved as JJ, was a bright beautiful light in this world,” she told WESH in an interview. “As his mother, I am beyond proud of the young man he was becoming. He was full of life, full of love, and full of dreams. Our hearts are shattered, but we want the world to remember JJ for his smile, his energy, and the love he gave so freely.”
Incident at Walmart
According to a statement from the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, the shooting occurred last Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026, when an off-duty deputy working security at a Walmart store confronted three individuals suspected of shoplifting.
Authorities said the deputy observed one suspect — later identified as Jones — allegedly carrying a handgun. Investigators reported that Jones attempted to flee and ran toward other shoppers, prompting the deputy to fire his weapon after fearing for public safety.
Sheriff Chris Blackmon said surveillance footage has been secured as part of an ongoing investigation. Officials have not confirmed whether the teen pointed the weapon at the deputy.
Two other suspects — a juvenile and a man in his 20s — were identified but have not been publicly named, and no charges have been announced against them.
Eyewitness Accounts
A corrections officer who was inside the store at the time told local media he heard the deputy repeatedly ordering the teen to stop. He said the teen allegedly tried to retrieve a dropped firearm despite commands to leave it on the floor.
The witness, who was armed and prepared to assist, said he never fired his weapon but remained ready to protect nearby customers.
Law enforcement officials said the deputy’s actions were based on a perceived threat to public safety. The officer has been placed on paid administrative leave in accordance with standard procedure while the investigation continues.
Mother Seeks Answers
Jones Spruill said she still has unanswered questions about the circumstances leading to her son’s death. While acknowledging the ongoing investigation, she emphasized that her focus remains on preserving her son’s memory.
“He was full of dreams,” she said. “We just want the world to know who he truly was.”
Authorities have not released additional details about the timeline of events or potential next steps in the investigation.
