Compton father arrested in shooting death of 9-year-old boy over holiday weekend

COMPTON, Calif. - A family was left devastated and an investigation continues after a 9-year-old boy was shot and killed in front of his grandfather's house in Compton, authorities said. His father was later identified as the suspect. 

Investigators with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said the shooting happened on S. Haskins Avenue and Alondra Boulevard just after 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30. 

The young victim was identified by family members as Princeton Nicholas Jones.

"He’s innocent, he doesn’t deserve that. He wasn’t a bad kid, and I’m going to miss my boy so much," Shenika Akins said. "If anyone knows who did this, can you please say something? Because my nephew didn’t deserve this."

On Monday morning, LA County detectives identified the boy's biological father, 32-year-old Nicholas Jones, as a suspect. 

Shamica Frasier, the boy's aunt, said he was at his grandparent's house for the holiday weekend when his dad shot him in the yard. 

Their family can't understand why.

"I don't know. I have no idea. I don't know. He was a loving, warm kid. very respectful, just heartwarming kid," Frasier said. 

Detectives arrested Jones on Sunday for murder and child abuse resulting in death. He was booked at the East Los Angeles Sheriff’s Station.

"Tragedy struck when Princeton was fatally shot in front of his grandfather’s home… this senseless act has left our family devastated," a GoFundMe page created for the family read.

Loved ones described Princeton as "a beacon of joy, lighting up every room he entered with his humor and infectious smile."

"He was adored by his friends, family, and community, who all cherished the incredible person he was becoming," the fundraiser page stated.

The investigation is ongoing. The City of Compton issued the following statement in response to the news of the shooting:

"The City of Compton mourns the loss of the 9-year-old boy who was killed on Saturday evening in West Rancho Dominguez. Our hearts go out to the family as they cope with this tremendous loss. We encourage anyone with more information to call the LA County Sheriff’s Department at (310) 605-6500."

Anyone with information is asked to contact the LASD.