Community Leaders Call for Action After Fatal Shooting of Beaumont Teen

Concerns grow over youth violence as residents urge unity and shared responsibility to address the issue.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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In Beaumont, Texas, community leaders, including the mayor, are calling for unity and action after the tragic death of 17-year-old Jayson January, who was shot and killed. Residents express fear for their families' safety amid recent youth crimes in the area, and Jayson's uncle, Rick Mojica, urges the community to come together to prevent further violence. City officials cite data showing young people in Beaumont account for a significant portion of murder suspects, victims, and aggravated assault suspects. The mayor's Coalition Against Violence aims to increase community involvement, but leaders emphasize public participation will be critical to addressing the problem.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing concerns in the Beaumont community about youth violence and the need for a comprehensive, community-driven approach to address the issue. The tragic death of Jayson January has sparked calls for action, underscoring the importance of fostering unity, shared responsibility, and increased community involvement to tackle the root causes of violence and protect young lives.

The details

According to the report, 17-year-old Jayson January was shot and killed on Friday in Beaumont, Texas. Community leaders, including the mayor, are urging residents to come together and take action to prevent further violence. Jayson's uncle, Rick Mojica, expressed concerns about the lack of value placed on young lives, saying, "We're assassinating each other, that life has no value." Some parents, like Kelly Joly, say the violence hits especially close to home, with Joly stating, "I have a 15-year-old, and I want him to live." City officials cite data showing that young people in Beaumont account for a significant portion of murder suspects, victims, and aggravated assault suspects. The mayor's Coalition Against Violence aims to address the issue, but leaders emphasize that public participation will be crucial.

  • Jayson January was shot and killed on Friday.

The players

Jayson January

A 17-year-old resident of Beaumont, Texas who was tragically killed in a shooting.

Rick Mojica

Jayson January's uncle, who urged the community to come together to prevent further violence.

Kelly Joly

A Beaumont resident and parent who expressed concern for her 15-year-old son's safety amid the recent youth violence.

Roy West

The mayor of Beaumont, who is leading the Coalition Against Violence to address the issue of youth violence in the city.

Rodrick Williams

A public information officer for the Beaumont Police Department, who discussed the factors contributing to youth violence.

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What they’re saying

“We're assassinating each other, that life has no value.”

— Rick Mojica, Jayson January's uncle (12newsnow.com)

“I have a 15-year-old, and I want him to live.”

— Kelly Joly, Beaumont resident (12newsnow.com)

“I know many people's hearts are broken over this most recent act of violence. I hear comments that come to me, some come online how they can help, and that is why this coalition against violence is going to be an easy way to get involved and to volunteer.”

— Roy West, Mayor of Beaumont (12newsnow.com)

“Violence is clearly not just a law enforcement problem. It is a community problem, and it certainly touches way too many families in our community.”

— Roy West, Mayor of Beaumont (12newsnow.com)

“It's one of those things where, you know, if you have lack of supervision, you have a greater chance of that type of thing to happen.”

— Rodrick Williams, Public Information Officer, Beaumont Police Department (12newsnow.com)

What’s next

The mayor's Coalition Against Violence plans to expand mentorship programs and increase community involvement to address the issue of youth violence in Beaumont.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive, community-driven approach to address the root causes of youth violence in Beaumont. By fostering unity, shared responsibility, and increased participation, the city can work to protect its young residents and build a safer, more resilient community.