Dennis R. Jones Jr., 55, was found dead in a rural ditch in Webster County on April 26, 2024, after a mail carrier discovered his body. Investigators determined he had been shot and killed at his Fort Dodge residence, then moved to the ditch. An autopsy found three gunshot wounds; toxicology showed methamphetamine and amphetamines in his system.

Authorities arrested his two sons, Alec R. Jones, 26, and Nathan T. Jones, 21, after evidence and witness statements implicated them. Court documents say Alec shot his father multiple times between April 25 and April 26, 2024, following a domestic dispute that allegedly involved Dennis striking his wife, Shannon. Prosecutors say the brothers then worked together to move the body; Alec was charged with first-degree murder and Nathan was initially charged with aiding and abetting first-degree murder before that charge was upgraded.

A third person has been identified in court filings as being connected to events after the killing. Anyone with information about Dennis, his family, or the events of April 25–26, 2024, is asked to come forward.