CA Boy Princeton Jones ID’d as Victim in Fatal Compton Shooting; Father Nicholas Jones Arrested

COMPTON, CA. (THECOUNT) — A tragic shooting near Compton claimed the life of 9-year-old Princeton Nicholas Jones over the weekend. Authorities have arrested the boy’s biological father, 32-year-old Nicholas Jones, in connection with the fatal incident, which occurred Saturday evening on Haskins Avenue near Visalia Avenue in West Rancho Dominguez.

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the scene just after 7:30 p.m. and discovered Princeton in the backyard of a home, suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators quickly identified his father as the primary suspect. Nicholas Jones was taken into custody on charges of murder and child abuse resulting in death.

Family and Community Mourn Loss of Young Life

The boy’s mother, Creole Green, shared her heartbreak over the loss of her son, who was diagnosed with autism. “My goal was to give him the proper teachings and all the things that he needed in order to navigate this world independently one day,” Green said. “I’m just devastated that my son’s life… the door was shut in front of him at nine years old.”

Princeton had been staying at his grandfather’s house when the shooting occurred. Family members described him as funny, caring, and deeply devoted to his mother. A vigil held Sunday brought together loved ones, neighbors, and community leaders to honor Princeton’s memory and call for an end to violence in the area.

Community Leaders Speak Out

Paulette Gibson, president of the Compton NAACP, expressed outrage over the tragedy. “This is our community,” Gibson said. “It is unfortunate that our young people can’t feel safe in their own community.”

Support for the Family

A GoFundMe account has been established to assist Princeton’s family during this devastating time. The community continues to rally around them, offering support and condolences as they cope with this unimaginable loss.

Via GoFundMe:

We are heartbroken to share the tragic loss of Princeton Nicholas Jones, a bright, loving 9-year-old whose life was taken far too soon. Born in 2015, Princeton was a truly special young man with a brilliant mind and a warm heart. Diagnosed with mild autism at the age of 2, Princeton worked tirelessly with the loving support of his mother and began speaking fluently by the age of 5.

Princeton was a beacon of joy, lighting up every room he entered with his humor and infectious smile. He was adored by his friends, family, and community, who all cherished the incredible person he was becoming.

On November 30, 2024, tragedy struck when Princeton was fatally shot in front of his grandfather’s home on Haskins Avenue and Alondra Boulevard in Compton, CA, at approximately 7:40 PM. This senseless act has left our family devastated and searching for answers as the investigation remains ongoing.

We are reaching out to our community and beyond for support during this incredibly difficult time. All donations will go directly toward funeral expenses and ensuring that Princeton is honored and remembered in a way that reflects the love and joy he brought into this world.

Your help, no matter the size, will mean the world to our family as we navigate this unimaginable loss. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this page with others.

Thank you for helping us celebrate Princeton’s life and ensuring his memory lives on.

With gratitude,
The Family of Princeton Nicholas Jones

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities have not released additional details about the circumstances leading up to the shooting. The investigation remains active, and anyone with information is urged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department at (323) 890-5500. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers by calling (800) 222-TIPS (8477) or visiting lacrimestoppers.org.

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