A California grandmother’s disappearance led to a tragic outcome when her body was discovered inside her car at a church parking lot. Her son now faces murder charges.
Emmanuel Wesley, a 23-year-old from Santa Ana, is accused of killing his mother, Theresa Jones, who was 61 years old. Prosecutors claim he shot her twice in the back while she was in her car outside the Fullerton Police Department on July 4. He allegedly moved her body to the passenger seat before driving away.
Jones was reported missing on July 7 after she did not pick up her grandchild and stopped responding to calls from family members.
Theresa Jones’ family described her as having an infectious personality and deep commitment to her family. A GoFundMe page was started to help cover funeral expenses.
On July 11, officers located Jones’ body in her vehicle, left in a church parking lot in Fullerton. Authorities say surveillance footage captured events around the time of the murder.
Investigators say video evidence shows Jones arriving at the Fullerton Police Department at about 2:46 p.m. on July 4. Wesley was in the back seat. According to authorities, she appeared to slump over in the driver’s seat before Wesley exited the back, moved her body, and drove the car away.
“For someone to kill their own mother is another level of depravity,” said Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer, emphasizing the seriousness of pursuing justice.
Family members remembered Jones as a deeply religious woman, whose faith infused her life. They expressed love and admiration for her dedication to her children and grandchildren, recalling her endearing nickname “Cardi B” due to her vibrant nature. The announcement of her loss highlighted the intense sorrow and absence felt by those who knew her.
Wesley has entered a plea of not guilty and remains detained without bail at the Orange County Jail. If found guilty of murder and gun charges, he could face a sentence of 50 years to life in prison.
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