Police: Man wanted in beating death turns self in

Gerrod Jones in custody with MAD DADS' help

Jacksonville Sheriff's Office booking photo of Gerrod Jones

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A 19-year-old man wanted for murder stemming from the fatal July 25 beating of his mother's boyfriend is in custody after turning himself in, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office announced Wednesday.

Gerrod Antonio Jones has been arrested and charged with the death of 42-year-old Darnell Williams, who died Saturday, police said.

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Police said Williams lived with Jones' mother, Jennifer McKnight, on Fern Street. During an argument with McKnight, Williams made derogatory remarks about McKnight and her mother.

Jones got angry, grabbed Williams in a bear hug, slammed him to the floor, punched and kicked him, and told him he would kill him, police said.

Jacksonville Fire and Rescue responded to a 911 call at the home and took Williams to UF Health Jacksonville with life-threatening head injuries. Williams never woke up and died Saturday of complications of blunt force head trauma, police said.

Police announced a murder arrest warrant for Jones earlier this week and with the assistance of the local chapter of MAD DADS, Jones turned himself in to police Tuesday, investigators said.

Jones got in touch with the vice president of MAD DADS, A.J. Jordan, through a friend. Jordan helped coordinate a meeting between Jones and detectives, during which Jones was arrested without any problems.

"This was a good start to a good resolution of the situation, yes," Jordan said.

Wednesday afternoon, News4Jax went to McKnight's house hoping to speak with her. McKnight was too upset to talk but said that at no point did Darnell Williams, ever get violent with her. She said he loved sports and liked to make people laugh and she is devastated by what happened.

When News4Jax asked if she has gone to the jail to visit her son since he was arrested, McKnight said she has no desire to see him and even said she raised her son to know that violence is not the answer.

Jones is charged with murder, domestic batter, and criminal mischief. He is being held without bond. 


About the Authors:

Ashley Harding joined the Channel 4 news team in March 2013. She reports for and anchors The Morning Show.

Jim Piggott is the reporter to count on when it comes to city government and how it will affect the community.