Jake Anthony Bradford Nelson was 21 when he died in Arlington, Texas, on April 8, 2017. He was born June 21, 1995, described as mixed ethnicity, and was remembered for his love of football, fishing, and helping stray animals. He attended Arlington High School, where he played football and mentored younger players.

Jake’s death was the result of a violent incident. Steven Lawayne Nelson, not related to Jake, was arrested and convicted for the murder. Reports say Steven Nelson also assaulted another woman who was at the scene and had prior violent offenses, including killing a fellow inmate while awaiting trial.

Jake’s family and community recalled him as loyal, loving, and carefree.