Theresa Jones, a 61-year-old grandmother from Orange County, California, was found dead inside her vehicle abandoned in a church parking lot in Fullerton on July 11, 2026. Her disappearance raised alarms on July 7 when she failed to pick up one of her grandchildren and stopped answering calls from loved ones.

Jones' son, Emmanuel Wesley, 23, of Santa Ana, has been charged with her murder. Prosecutors allege Wesley shot his mother twice in the back while she was sitting behind the wheel outside the Fullerton Police Department on the Fourth of July. After the shooting, he reportedly moved her body into the passenger seat and drove away.

Jones' family described her as having an infectious personality and unwavering devotion to her children and grandchildren. Loved ones also called her smart, funny, and full of life. A fundraiser highlighted the family's agonizing search following her unexpected disappearance.

Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer commented, "The death of any human being is a tragedy. For someone to kill their own mother is another level of depravity. We will do everything we can to pursue justice for Ms. Jones and everyone who loved her."

Wesley has pleaded not guilty and remains held without bail. If convicted, he faces up to 50 years to life in prison.

Sources