Suspect Arrested in Murder of Former Edna Karr Football Standout Jae’Von Walton
Five weeks after the tragic death of 27-year-old Jae’Von Walton, a former Edna Karr football star, an arrest has been made in connection with his murder. Damien Gaines, 37, of Harvey, was taken into custody by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives on Sunday and booked with second-degree murder.
The arrest brings some relief to Walton’s grieving family, who are still trying to come to terms with the loss. Walton’s mother, Kennedra Miller, expressed her hope that justice will be served, not only for her but for all the mothers who have lost their children to senseless violence.
Walton, described by his relatives as a gentle giant, was known for his tender-hearted nature. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 234 pounds, he may have appeared intimidating at first glance, but those who knew him quickly realized he had a kind and compassionate soul. His stepfather, Henry Miller, affectionately called him a gentle teddy bear, while his little brother, Jae’Rez Miller, described him as soft as a baby.
On the night of the incident, Walton was shot near an apartment building in the Harvey neighborhood. Although Walton did not know Gaines personally, there were rumors that the two had a minor disagreement or altercation in the days leading up to the tragic event. Walton was playing football with children in the area when the two men crossed paths again, resulting in the fatal shooting.
Walton’s family insists that he was not the aggressor in the altercation and believe that a misunderstanding may have played a role in the tragic outcome. They expressed their deep sadness and regret that Gaines did not have the opportunity to know Walton better, as they believe this could have prevented the violence.
Football was a significant part of Walton’s life. He grew up with the sport, with his stepfather serving as a coach and his biological father, John Copeland, playing football for the University of Alabama and the Cincinnati Bengals. The former middle linebacker for Edna Karr was known for his exceptional skills on the field, and his family and friends remember him as one of the best linebackers in the state.
After experiencing challenges during his college years at the University of Nebraska, including a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, Walton decided to no longer pursue a career in football. However, he remained passionate about the game and dedicated his time to mentoring and training local kids in his neighborhood. Walton’s positive energy and love for teaching football made a significant impact on the youngsters he worked with, and he had plans to continue assisting former coaches in the future.
The tragic loss of Walton has left a void in the hearts of his family and the community. Relatives describe him as a non-threatening person who had no involvement in criminal activities and who did not deserve to meet such a tragic end.
As the investigation continues, the arrest of Damien Gaines provides a glimmer of hope for justice. However, the pain of Walton’s loss will undoubtedly linger, and his absence will be deeply felt by those whose lives he touched. The memory of Jae’Von Walton, the gentle giant with a big smile, will live on in the hearts of his loved ones and in the community he dedicated himself to.
