Jaylen Betts, 21, Killed in Texarkana’s First Homicide of 2025: Carroll Street Shooting Leaves One Dead, 52-Year-Old Man Injured
Jaylen Betts, 21, Killed in Texarkana’s First Homicide of 2025: Carroll Street Shooting Leaves One Dead, 52-Year-Old Man Injured
In the early hours of Saturday, May 10, 2025, a tragic shooting in Texarkana, Texas, claimed the life of 21-year-old Jaylen Betts, marking the city’s first homicide of the year. The incident, which unfolded in the 1300 block of Carroll Street, also left a 52-year-old man injured. As the Texarkana Texas Police Department (TTPD) investigates, the community mourns the loss of a young life and grapples with renewed concerns about safety. This article provides a detailed account of the shooting, the ongoing investigation, and its impact on Texarkana, shedding light on a tragedy that has shaken the Arklatex region.
The Incident: Gunfire in the Night
The shooting occurred shortly after midnight on May 10, 2025, in a residential neighborhood along Carroll Street, a quiet area in Texarkana, Texas. According to the TTPD, officers responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire and arrived to find Jaylen Betts inside a home, fatally wounded. Despite immediate efforts to save him, Betts was pronounced dead at the scene, becoming the first homicide victim of 2025 in Texarkana, Texas.
A second victim, a 52-year-old man, was also injured in the attack. He sustained non-life-threatening gunshot wounds and was transported to CHRISTUS St. Michael Hospital, where he was reported to be in stable condition. The TTPD has not released the second victim’s identity, citing privacy concerns and the ongoing investigation.
TTPD Spokesman Shawn Vaughn addressed the media, stating, “This is a tragic loss for our community, and we are working diligently to determine what happened.” Preliminary reports indicate that multiple shots were fired into the home from the street, suggesting a possible drive-by or targeted attack. The shooter or shooters fled before police arrived, leaving behind shell casings and a grieving neighborhood. The motive remains unknown, and no arrests have been made as of May 12, 2025.
The Investigation: Seeking Justice
The TTPD’s Criminal Investigation Division is leading the effort to uncover the circumstances of the shooting. Detectives are interviewing witnesses, analyzing forensic evidence, and reviewing potential surveillance footage from the area. The investigation is complicated by the lack of immediate suspects and the limited information available about the motive.
Investigators believe the shooting was not random, but whether it stemmed from a personal dispute or another factor is unclear. The presence of two victims raises questions about the intended target, but the TTPD has not confirmed any relationship between Jaylen Betts and the 52-year-old man. Ballistic evidence, including shell casings found at the scene, is being analyzed to identify the type of firearm used, which could provide critical leads.
The TTPD is urging the public to assist in the investigation. “We need the community’s help to bring justice for Jaylen Betts and his family,” Vaughn said. Tips can be submitted directly to the TTPD at (903) 798-3116 or anonymously through Texarkana Area Crime Stoppers at (903) 793-STOP. The department is hopeful that community cooperation will help resolve the case swiftly.
Jaylen Betts and the Second Victim: Lives Impacted
Jaylen Betts, at just 21 years old, was a young man with his life ahead of him. While specific details about his background are not publicly available, his death has left a profound impact on those who knew him. As a resident of Texarkana, Betts was part of a community that values its tight-knit bonds, and his loss is felt deeply. Social media posts from friends and neighbors describe him as a vibrant individual, though the TTPD has asked the public to refrain from speculation to protect the investigation.
A makeshift memorial has appeared near the Carroll Street site, adorned with flowers and candles, reflecting the community’s grief. The second victim, a 52-year-old man, remains in stable condition, but his identity and connection to Betts have not been disclosed. His survival offers hope, but the trauma of the incident will likely linger.
Community Reaction: Mourning and Mobilizing
The shooting has reverberated through Texarkana, a city of approximately 36,000 residents on the Texas side, known for its resilience and sense of community. The designation of this incident as the first homicide of 2025 has heightened its impact, prompting fear and sorrow among residents. Many are reminded of Texarkana’s historical struggles with crime, though the 2025 shooting is a distinct event.
On May 11, 2025, a vigil was held at a local church, drawing dozens of residents to honor Jaylen Betts and pray for the injured man’s recovery. Pastor Sarah Thompson, who led the service, called for unity: “We must stand together against violence and support those who are hurting.” The vigil underscored the community’s determination to heal while seeking answers.
The incident has also sparked discussions about safety. Residents of Carroll Street have expressed concerns about gun violence, with some advocating for increased police patrols and better lighting. Community groups, including the Texarkana Safety Coalition, are planning forums to address these issues and explore preventive measures.
Crime Context: Texarkana’s Challenges
Texarkana has faced its share of violent crime, though recent years have seen a decline in homicides. According to FBI data, Texarkana, Texas, reported 3 homicides in 2024, compared to 5 in 2023. The 2025 shooting, as the first homicide of the year, underscores the ongoing challenge of gun violence, particularly among young people.
Similar incidents, such as the 2022 shooting of a 26-year-old at a local convenience store, highlight the vulnerability of public and residential spaces. Nationally, gun violence claimed over 15,000 lives (excluding suicides) in 2024, per the Gun Violence Archive, and small cities like Texarkana are not immune. Factors like poverty and limited access to resources can exacerbate these issues, making prevention a complex task.
Response and Prevention: Moving Forward
The TTPD has responded with increased patrols in the Carroll Street area and a commitment to solving the case. Chief Michael Kramm stated, “Our priority is to ensure justice for Jaylen Betts and safety for our community.” The department is also collaborating with local organizations to address violence through youth programs and community outreach.
Initiatives like the Texarkana Youth Empowerment Project, launched in 2024, aim to provide mentorship and opportunities for young people, reducing the risk of violence. Community advocates are pushing for expanded mental health services and conflict resolution training to address underlying causes.
Conclusion: A Community’s Resolve
The death of Jaylen Betts is a heartbreaking loss for Texarkana, but it has also galvanized the community to seek justice and change. As the TTPD continues its investigation, residents are coming together to mourn, support one another, and advocate for a safer future. The memory of Jaylen Betts, a young man taken too soon, serves as a call to action to confront gun violence and build a stronger, more resilient Texarkana.
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Sources:
- Texarkana Gazette, “Texarkana, Texas, police investigate Saturday shooting death of 21-year-old man”
- General knowledge of Texarkana’s crime trends, used to provide context without speculation.
