A man accused of killing his ex-girlfriend and her mother’s partner has been arrested after spending more than a month on the run. Jaylen McCollins was wanted for two counts of first-degree murder and unlawful possession of a weapon following a deadly double shooting in Southeast Shelby County, Tennessee. The tragic incident occurred on July 1, 2024, and involved the fatal shooting of Anony Stewart, McCollins’ ex-girlfriend, and Gary Newman, the long-term partner of Stewart’s mother.
Victims Identified and Family in Mourning
The victims, identified as Anony Stewart and Gary Newman, were found shot to death in their Shelby County home on July 1. Stewart, who had been in a relationship with McCollins, was allegedly assaulted by him before the shooting.
Surveillance video shared by the victim’s family captures the moments leading up to the tragedy. In the footage, McCollins can be seen shoving Stewart and forcing his way into the residence. The family has expressed deep sorrow and disbelief at the violence that unfolded, especially since McCollins had previously lived with Stewart’s family.
Stewart’s uncle, Frank Gotti, an anti-violence activist, spoke to Fox 13 News about the pain and shock his family has experienced. Gotti described his niece as a caring young woman with a heart of gold. She had graduated recently and was loved deeply by her family.
Gotti expressed disbelief that McCollins, who had once been treated like a son by the family, could commit such a heinous act. He reflected on the heartbreak of losing his niece and the lasting impact on his family, particularly on Stewart’s teenage brother, who was in the home during the shooting but was unharmed.
Suspect on the Run for Over a Month
After the double homicide, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office quickly identified McCollins as the primary suspect. Authorities warned the public that he was considered armed and dangerous. Despite public pleas from the victims’ family for McCollins to surrender, he remained at large for more than a month.
The family endured sleepless nights, fearful that the suspect could strike again or evade justice indefinitely. Their agony was compounded by the knowledge that someone they once welcomed into their home was responsible for the deaths of their loved ones.
Arrest in Downtown Memphis
On Monday, August 14, 2024, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office announced that McCollins had been apprehended in Downtown Memphis. The arrest brought a sense of relief to the victims’ family, who had been living in fear and anguish since the shooting.
Frank Gotti expressed that the family could finally rest a little easier, though the pain of losing Stewart and Newman would not soon fade. The image of McCollins being taken into custody marked the end of a manhunt that had lasted nearly six weeks and brought some measure of justice for the grieving family.
Impact on the Community and Continued Advocacy for Peace
The double murder and subsequent arrest have had a profound impact on the Shelby County community, particularly among those close to the victims. Frank Gotti, who has long been an advocate for peace and anti-violence initiatives, spoke about the irony and pain of losing his niece to the very violence he has fought against.
Gotti’s message of peace has been central to his activism, and the loss of Stewart has only strengthened his resolve to continue his work. He acknowledged the personal toll the tragedy has taken on him and his family, but he remains committed to his cause.
Gotti also mentioned that he plans to attend all of McCollins’ court hearings to ensure that justice is served. He is determined to honor the memory of his niece and her mother’s partner by standing up for peace and seeking accountability for their deaths. The community, shaken by the senseless violence, has rallied around the family, offering support and solidarity in the face of such a devastating loss.
Conclusion
The arrest of Jaylen McCollins marks a critical step in the pursuit of justice for the victims of the Shelby County double shooting. As the legal process unfolds, the family of Anony Stewart and Gary Newman will continue to seek solace and healing.
Frank Gotti’s ongoing advocacy for peace serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing violence in all its forms and the enduring impact it has on families and communities.
