Mistrial Declared in Rashaun Jones Murder Case

Jurors say prosecution failed to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt in 2006 killing of former Miami football player Bryan Pata.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The murder trial of former University of Miami football player Rashaun Jones ended in a mistrial on Monday, March 2, after jurors told ESPN the prosecution could not prove his guilt in the 2006 killing of his former teammate, Bryan Pata. Jurors cited lack of evidence, inconsistencies in testimony, and unanswered questions as reasons for the mistrial.

Why it matters

The Rashaun Jones case has been a high-profile murder trial that has dragged on for nearly 15 years since Pata's death. The mistrial raises questions about the strength of the prosecution's case and whether they will be able to secure a conviction in a potential retrial.

The details

Jones, 40, was accused of shooting and killing his former teammate, Bryan Pata, at Pata's apartment complex after practice in November 2006. Pata was 22 when he died. Jones was not arrested until 2021, shortly after an alleged witness identified him in a photo lineup. The former Hurricane has maintained innocence and declined plea offers before the trial.

  • The murder trial for Rashaun Jones ended in a mistrial on Monday, March 2, 2026.
  • Pata was killed in November 2006 at the age of 22.
  • Jones was not arrested until 2021, shortly after an alleged witness identified him.

The players

Rashaun Jones

A 40-year-old former University of Miami Hurricanes football player who was accused of murdering his former teammate, Bryan Pata, in 2006.

Bryan Pata

A 22-year-old University of Miami Hurricanes football player who was shot and killed in 2006.

Paul Conner

A former University of Miami writing instructor who was the state's lone eyewitness, identifying Jones in a photo lineup.

Jada Brody

Pata's girlfriend, who previously had a sexual relationship with Jones, but did not testify in the trial.

Juan Segovia

The lead detective on the case, whose testimony was found unconvincing by the jurors.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Prosecutors have indicated they intend to retry the case against Rashaun Jones.

The takeaway

The mistrial in the Rashaun Jones murder case highlights the high bar for prosecutors to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, even in a high-profile case with a long history. The jurors' concerns about lack of evidence, inconsistent testimony, and unanswered questions suggest the state may face challenges in securing a conviction in a potential retrial.