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Thief shot dead; 2 flee

Southern Avenue resident kills intruder in his home; police fear retaliatory violence.

Map of location of fatal shooting

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By Valerie Lough, Staff Writer Updated 9:06 PM Friday, October 16, 2009

SPRINGFIELD — One man is dead and two other men remained at large following an alleged home invasion Thursday, Oct. 15.

Demarkis L. Jones, 26, was shot in the chest around 11:30 p.m., according to a police report.

Jones and two other males allegedly forced their way into a home at 214 W. Southern Ave., demanded money and pistol-whipped a man inside the house, said Springfield Police Division Chief Stephen Moody.

“The gentleman that was originally assaulted was able to obtain a handgun that was in the kitchen area of his house,” said Moody.

The man, who the News-Sun has opted not to name, fired two to four shots, hitting Jones, who stumbled outside and collapsed, Moody said. Two men who were reportedly with Jones fled the area, and police continued their search for them Friday.

Investigators are concerned that there may be retaliation for Thursday’s shooting. “We are disturbed by the level of violence that occurred last night and we’re disturbed that it’s going to continue,” he said. No charges had been filed as of Friday afternoon, and Moody declined to comment whether the intruders knew the residents.

Similar incidents may have occurred in the area prior to Thursday night’s events, the chief said. “There is an indication that we have some home invasions that haven’t been reported,” he said.

The suspects are described as adult males between the ages of 18 and 22, about 5 feet, 8 inches, 170 to 180 pounds, according to the report. They were wearing hooded sweatshirts and Halloween masks, said Moody. Anyone with information about the incident may contact the Springfield Police Division, anonymously if necessary, at (937) 324-7716.

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