Jacques Ford, a 16-year-old Black male from Clearwater, Florida, was described by his father as a "bright, loving, and compassionate soul who brought joy and laughter to everyone he encountered." His father said Jacques's infectious smile and caring nature touched many lives, and his sudden death left a void that could never be filled.
On the afternoon of January 30, 2024, Jacques was inside an apartment in the 1200 block of Engman Street. According to witnesses, he and a friend, who lived at the residence, were “play fighting.” During the physical exchange, the friend, 16-year-old Yerney Arvelo, picked up a gun. The weapon discharged, and the bullet struck Jacques. He was transported to Morton Plant Hospital, where he died from his injuries.
The Clearwater Police Department investigated the fatal shooting, and detectives arrested Yerney Arvelo the following day.
The investigation also revealed that Arvelo's mother, 39-year-old Laquanda Lancaster, had instructed a witness to be "untruthful" when giving a statement to police. Despite her instruction, the witness told investigators the truth.
Yerney Arvelo was charged with manslaughter and violation of probation for his role in Jacques's death. Laquanda Lancaster was charged with tampering with a witness. The case concluded in June 2025, when Arvelo, then 17, was sentenced to Florida state prison during a hearing that was described as emotional and tense.
