A California family’s concern grew into unimaginable grief after a beloved grandmother failed to pick up one of her grandchildren and stopped answering her phone.
Theresa Jones, 61, was later found dead inside her vehicle in the parking lot of a Fullerton church, according to Fox News. Authorities have charged her 23-year-old son, Emmanuel Wesley, in connection with her death.
Wesley has pleaded not guilty, and the allegations against him have not been proven in court.
According to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, Jones drove to the Fullerton Police Department on July 4 with Wesley seated in the back of her vehicle. Prosecutors allege surveillance video showed Jones arriving at approximately 2:46 p.m. before she then slumped over in the driver’s seat.
Authorities allege Wesley then climbed out of the back seat, moved Jones into the passenger seat and drove away in her vehicle. Prosecutors say Jones had been shot twice in the back.
Jones’ loved ones became concerned on July 7 when she did not arrive to pick up one of her grandchildren and could not be reached despite repeated calls. The family reported her missing, Fox News reported.
Four days later, on July 11, investigators located Jones’ vehicle in a church parking lot in Fullerton. Her body was found inside. Authorities said she had suffered two gunshot wounds to her back.
Prosecutors have not publicly identified a possible motive.
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Wesley faces one felony count of murder and a sentencing enhancement alleging the personal discharge of a firearm causing death, according to the district attorney’s office. He is being held without bail in the Orange County Jail. If convicted, he could face up to 50 years to life in prison.
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer addressed the gravity of the allegations in a statement, calling every homicide a tragedy while saying the alleged murder of one’s own mother reflected “another level of depravity.”
Spitzer said his office would seek justice for Jones and the family members now mourning her death.
Those closest to Jones are remembering her not for the horrific circumstances surrounding her death, but for the faith, love and joy she carried throughout her life.
According to a GoFundMe created to assist with funeral expenses, Jones was a devoted Christian who loved her children and grandchildren deeply. Her family described her as intelligent, humorous and full of life. They affectionately called her “Cardi B,” a nickname inspired by her lively personality.
The tragedy has left a family grieving both a devastating loss and allegations involving one of their own.
For believers, this is a moment to pray for the children and grandchildren who have been thrust into a level of pain few could ever imagine. It is also a reminder that no family is beyond the reach of heartbreak in a fallen world.
Yet Scripture offers hope even when answers appear painfully out of reach: “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the contrite of spirit” (Ps. 34:18).
As the case proceeds through the court system, pray that truth will be revealed, justice will be served, and God’s presence will surround every member of Jones’ grieving family.
Abby Trivett is a writer and editor for Charisma Media and has a passion for sharing the gospel through the written word. She holds two degrees from Regent University, a B.A. in Communication with a concentration in Journalism and a Master of Arts in Journalism. She is the author of the newly released book, The Power of Suddenly: Discover How God Can Change Everything in a Moment. For interviews and media inquiries, please contact [email protected].
