Arizona Grandfather Fatally Shot His Daughter and Two Grandchildren Before Killing Himself, Family Says
PIMA, ARIZONA — A quiet Arizona community is mourning after four members of the same family — including two children — were found shot to death in an apparent murder-suicide. Authorities say a grandfather fatally shot his daughter and grandchildren before taking his own life inside their Pima home.
According to the Pima Police Department, officers discovered the bodies of 31-year-old Justice Jones, her two children, Kyle, 10, and Tyme, 8, and her father, 64-year-old Duane Michael Jones, inside a residence on October 16.
When officers arrived around 1 p.m. for a welfare check, they found all four deceased — and the gun still in Duane Jones’ possession, according to The Gila Herald.
Tragic Discovery During Welfare Check
Police sealed off the scene and launched an investigation, which included assistance from Safford and Thatcher Police Departments and the Graham County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities believe Duane Jones fatally shot his daughter and grandchildren before turning the gun on himself, though investigators have not confirmed a motive.
Family members said there were no warning signs of mental health struggles or conflict that might have led to the tragedy.
“I just hope that they were asleep, and no one had to see anything happen to the others,” said Breana Flores, a relative of the victims, in an interview with Arizona’s Family (KPHO/KTVK). “That they didn’t have to experience any type of fear before it happened.”
Family Struggles to Understand Why
Flores said the family is struggling to comprehend what could have driven Duane Jones to commit such an act.
“There was no indication that he was dealing with any mental health issues,” she said. “Obviously, we’re assuming [he was], because anybody of sane mind — this isn’t something that you do.”
According to Flores, Justice Jones had made a haunting Facebook post the night before the murders, writing “Good night” with a slanted-face emoji — a message that seemed unsettling in hindsight.
“I didn’t see it until after the fact, but there was something going on,” Flores said.
Community Mourns Mother and Children
Autopsies for the four victims are being conducted at the Pima County Office of the Medical Examiner in Tucson.
Loved ones describe Justice as a devoted mother who adored her children. Two separate GoFundMe pages have been launched to support funeral costs and the children’s father, Phillip Oates, who is now left grieving his loss.
“We are devastated beyond words,” one family post read. “Kyle and Tyme were joyful, loving, and full of life — they didn’t deserve this.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of harm or violence, contact the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 for confidential, 24/7 support. Stay updated with developing local stories at ChicagoMusicGuide.com.