A 14-year-old is now charged with murder after a weekend shooting in North Texas left a 24-year-old dead. The incident, which unfolded during a party on the 700 block of Wellington Drive, has drawn police, court officials and the community into a tense investigation and legal process.
The Shooting
Police say the teenager fatally shot Romeo English, a 24-year-old soon-to-be father, Saturday night. The shooting occurred amid an argument between the teen and English, though investigators are still working to determine what sparked the violence. A gun was recovered from the scene and is currently being traced by authorities.
Two-Day Search
After the shooting, the 14-year-old led law enforcement on a two-day search before surrendering to authorities Monday night in Dallas. His name has been withheld because he is a minor. The suspect made his first court appearance Tuesday in Collin County Juvenile Court.
Statements from Lavon Police
Lavon Police Chief J. Michael Jones described the incident as “a sad and unfortunate series of events that could have been avoided.” He added, “I just wish they hadn’t happened.” Chief Jones said police are in contact with the juvenile’s attorney, hoping the teen will eventually talk and give his side of the story, but that has not yet occurred.
Potential Charges for Others
Chief Jones also noted that other individuals could face charges related to the shooting. “We are looking at several individuals and their role in it, but not in the murder itself, but in the events that followed the murder,” he said. The Collin County District Attorney’s Office will determine whether the 14-year-old will be tried as an adult or remain in the juvenile system.
Impact on the Victim’s Family
Romeo English was preparing to welcome a son with his girlfriend, LaDericka Brownfield. Brownfield shared photos of the couple as they prepared to welcome a son and launched a GoFundMe to support her family. She said she is carrying both the weight of grief and the hope for their baby’s future.
School Safety Measures
During the search for the suspect, Community ISD increased security and restricted visitor access at three schools, including the one where the teen is enrolled. The district said those measures were lifted on Tuesday, after the suspect’s surrender.
Legal Proceedings
The teen’s first appearance in court was on Tuesday in Collin County Juvenile Court. The case is still developing, and the court will decide on the appropriate legal path for the minor. The District Attorney’s Office is evaluating whether the teen will be tried as an adult or remain in the juvenile system.
Key Takeaways
- A 14-year-old is charged with murder after shooting a 24-year-old in North Texas.
- The teen led police on a two-day search before surrendering in Dallas.
- Lavon Police Chief J. Michael Jones called the incident avoidable and expressed regret.
- Other individuals may face charges related to events following the shooting.
- The victim’s girlfriend launched a GoFundMe and expresses hope for their unborn child.
The case underscores the tragic consequences of violence and the complex legal questions that arise when a minor is involved in a fatal shooting. As the investigation continues and the court decides the next steps, the community remains on edge, hoping for justice for Romeo English and a safer future for all involved.
