The Texas family of two teen brothers killed in 2020 are feeling a sense of relief after Fort Bend County authorities said “multiple” arrests were made in connection to the case.
“We are devastated for a mother and a father to lose two children in a senseless act of crime,” Sheriff Eric Fagan said.
The four suspects, 19-year-old Jaelen Allen, 20-year-old 19-year-old Jaiden Gaines, 20-year-old Donovan Philips, and Dalan Philips, were all charged with murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, according to FBSCO. Dalan Phillips is also charged with evading arrest with a vehicle and Jaiden Gaines also charged with unlawful possession of a firearm.
All four suspects are accused of killing 15-year-old Devin Massey and 17-year-old Jonathan Massey and injuring another teen outside a home in Fresno in December 2020. Family members said in a statement the shooting was “randomly” targeted.
Two teen brothers were killed and one person was seriously injured Saturday in a shooting outside a Fresno home, according to the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office.
At approximately 8 p.m. Saturday, Fort Bend County Sheriff’s units were dispatched to a residence in the 300 block of Broadmore Drive in reference to a shooting. On arrival, deputies found two juvenile males dead inside a vehicle parked in the driveway, according to officials.
Deputies also located the third victim on the scene who was taken by ambulance to a hospital in the Texas Medical Center with serious injuries.
According to Fort Bend County Sheriff Eric Fagan, the arrests were conducted in partnership with the Gulf Coast Violent Offenders Taskforce.
“I thank the continued dedication of the Sheriff’s Office investigators and the task force who did not give up on this case,” said Fagan. “Almost two years later, but the Massey family finally has justice.”
Authorities have not determined a motive. Sheriff Fagan says the brothers and suspects were acquaintances who hung out
“These individuals we arrested were dangerous individuals and took the lives of two young me. If we didn’t get the off the streets there’s no telling what could have happened,” he said.
The teen brothers went to Ridge Point High School and loved football.
“It’s a sad case, but it’s a reminder that every life has value. The Massey boys will now have a voice,” Brian Middleton, Fort Bend County District Attorney said.
The four men remain jailed in Fort Bend County. Bonds for each suspect are set at approximately $1 million.
The Massey family released a statement:
“At this time the Massey family would like to thank everyone who has assisted in any way with the murder cases of our boys Jojo and Devin. We are so grateful for the detectives hard work and countless hours. We look forward to the day when complete justice is served and those responsible are held accountable to the utmost extent of the law. Although we have learned of these new developments, this in no way brings us closure. There’s so much still unknown. We miss our precious boys and will always suffer from this severe loss. As a family we ask for privacy at this time but I’m sure in due time, we will be able to speak after justice prevails. As for now, we appreciate the outpouring of prayers and support and look forward to the justice system doing Justice.”
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