Melvin Jay Obituary, Death: Family of Melvin Jay Seek Justice After Officer Braxton Shelton’s Acquittal in Shooting Case
The Maryland Attorney General’s Office has announced that Officer Braxton Shelton, who fatally shot 31-year-old Melvin Jay inside his apartment in Suitland, Maryland, will not face criminal charges. This decision follows a thorough investigation by the state’s Independent Investigations Division, which concluded that Shelton did not commit a crime when he shot Jay in the face within six seconds of arriving at the apartment .
Jay died on the scene, anpd the incident drew significant attention, particularly from Jay’s family, who have continually voiced their opposition to the officer’s actions and demanded a thorough and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting. Despite the state’s decision, Jay’s family and their attorney remain resolute in their pursuit of further investigation and possible legal action .
The Attorney General’s Office released a 16-page report outlining its decision not to charge Shelton. The report contained statements from Shelton, marking the first time the public has heard the officer’s version of events. According to Shelton, he fired his weapon in self-defense during the February 1 encounter at the Windham Creek Apartments .
The report shed light on the sequence of events leading to the shooting. The apartment’s leaseholder contacted 911 at around 5:20 p.m., telling the dispatcher that a neighbor had informed him someone appeared to be breaking into his apartment. The caller expressed urgency, saying, “I need the police there right now.” However, the caller did not inform the dispatcher that his roommate, Melvin Jay, and Jay’s brother were also in the apartment at the time .
This lack of information may have contributed to the confusion when Officer Shelton arrived on the scene and encountered Jay. The incident has sparked ongoing discussions about police response protocols, especially in situations involving incomplete or misleading information during emergency calls .
For now, the case highlights the complexities involved in split-second decisions made by law enforcement officers in potentially life-threatening situations. The family of Melvin Jay will continue to seek justice and accountability for his death. The pursuit of further investigation and possible legal action will hopefully bring closure to the family and ensure that justice is served .
