Earl Bolden, a 48-year-old African American man, was shot and killed on the night of April 21, 2025, outside the Buena Vista Apartments in Fort Worth, Texas. He was struck multiple times in the parking lot after an argument with another individual and was taken to John Peter Smith Hospital, where he died about an hour later. Bolden’s 7-year-old son witnessed the shooting and is now with relatives and receiving trauma counseling.

Police say 25-year-old Javier Jones was arrested and charged with murder after surveillance footage and witness identifications, including a photographic lineup, linked him to the scene. Witnesses reported a heated argument earlier that evening; one person who had been in the vehicle with Bolden said Bolden tried to pull out a firearm in self-defense, though it is unclear whether he fired. Authorities are continuing to investigate motive and seek the firearms involved.

If anyone saw activity around the Buena Vista Apartments on the night of April 21 or has information about the shooting, please come forward.