A devastating incident unfolded in Houston when a mother of two, 25-year-old Jalen Easterling, was fatally shot by her ex-boyfriend during a birthday party for their 6-year-old child, authorities reported. The tragic shooting occurred at a home on Locksley Road just after 8:30 p.m., according to KHOU.
Easterling and her new boyfriend were celebrating their child’s birthday when the child’s father, 27-year-old Jalin J. Foreman, showed up uninvited. Despite being told he wasn’t allowed to attend, Foreman arrived at the residence, setting off a horrific chain of events.
According to a witness, Foreman emerged from his vehicle and began shouting at the townhome. Tensions escalated quickly as Foreman fired five shots at the home, KHOU reported.
During the altercation, Easterling reportedly shouted back at Foreman, saying, “I’m not scared of you,” “I know where you live,” and “Come at me.” Witnesses said the confrontation only grew more heated when Foreman left, only to return moments later. Upon his return, he screamed, “We’re going to end this now,” before fatally shooting Easterling.
The terrifying incident was captured on surveillance video from a nearby home, court documents reveal. Fortunately, no one else inside the home, including the children and Easterling’s boyfriend, was physically harmed during the shooting. However, they witnessed the entire traumatic event.
Easterling tragically died at the scene as a result of her injuries. Jalin J. Foreman was arrested shortly afterward and charged with murder.
In the wake of the heartbreaking loss, a GoFundMe page has been set up to support Easterling’s family during this incredibly difficult time.