Update on Fatal Shooting at Jerry Watson Park
9:15 p.m. May 13, 2025: Updated to include new information.
Introduction to the Incident
Five people have been arrested as of Tuesday following a fatal shooting at Jerry Watson Park over the weekend, according to Ferris officials.
At about 2 p.m. Saturday, a physical altercation involving more than 10 people escalated into an exchange of gunfire, killing Sir Robert Wesley Dixon, 17, and injuring another. Officials said the entire incident was caught on security cameras at the park.
Related Incidents
1 killed, 1 injured in shooting in Ferris, city says
Details of the Shooting
According to a news release, Dixon was shot in the neck during the altercation. Officials said a male juvenile faces a murder charge.
Crime in The News
Officials also said another person retrieved a firearm that was in Dixon’s possession and returned fire in the direction of the person who fired, injuring a second juvenile. As a result, 17-year-old Mister Donald Dwayne Dixon is facing charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and unlawful carry of a weapon, according to officials.
Arrests and Charges
A Monday news release also said 17-year-old Juliana Pargas and a female juvenile were arrested in the incident. Pargas was in the Ellis County jail Tuesday and faces an evidence tampering charge.
Meanwhile, a news release said the other female was reported to have provided the weapon to Dixon shortly before the shooting occurred. She is facing a charge of criminal responsibility for the conduct of another.
In addition, a Tuesday news release said 32-year-old Donald Lofton Jr., who is related to both Dixons, is facing charges of failure to report a felony and tampering with physical evidence. He was arrested in Waxahachie before being transported to Ellis County Jail, according to the news release.
Ongoing Investigation
Officials also said Tuesday the investigation remains ongoing and additional arrest warrants are expected.
“We are following the facts and evidence wherever they lead, ensuring no stone is left unturned,” Brooks Williams, city manager of Ferris, said in the news release. “That is our responsibility, and we take it seriously.”
Conclusion
The fatal shooting at Jerry Watson Park has resulted in the arrest of five people, with more expected as the investigation continues. The city of Ferris is taking the incident seriously and is working to ensure that justice is served. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of community safety and the need for individuals to take responsibility for their actions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happened at Jerry Watson Park?
A: A physical altercation involving more than 10 people escalated into an exchange of gunfire, killing Sir Robert Wesley Dixon, 17, and injuring another.
Q: How many people have been arrested?
A: Five people have been arrested as of Tuesday, with additional arrest warrants expected.
Q: What charges are the individuals facing?
A: The individuals are facing various charges, including murder, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, unlawful carry of a weapon, evidence tampering, and failure to report a felony.
Q: Is the investigation ongoing?
A: Yes, the investigation remains ongoing, and officials are working to ensure that all facts and evidence are considered.
Q: What is the city of Ferris doing to address the incident?
A: The city of Ferris is taking the incident seriously and is working to ensure that justice is served, with the city manager stating that they are following the facts and evidence wherever they lead.
