Captain Robert Ray Jones, 58, died on September 16, 1983, after being accidentally shot during a firearms training demonstration in Garland, Texas. The incident took place at the Texas Department of Public Safety regional license office while Jones was demonstrating weapon-handling techniques. Trooper Ross Powell’s revolver discharged and struck Jones in the chest; Jones was taken to Baylor Medical Center and pronounced dead shortly afterward.

The department investigated and concluded the shooting was accidental. Powell was acting at Jones’ request and was demonstrating methods learned at a recent officer survival seminar; he was not suspended or disciplined. No arrest, suspect, or murder investigation followed. Jones had begun his career on April 1, 1949, and his death prompted discussion about safety protocols for training demonstrations.

If anyone attended that demonstration or has information about the safety measures used that day, please share what is known.