BREAKING UPDATE: Beaumont Police Arrest Travon Alexander in Dominoes Game Murder
BEAUMONT, TX — Beaumont Police have made an arrest in connection with the deadly shooting that occurred over the weekend, stemming from what authorities describe as a disturbance during a game of dominoes. On Monday evening, officials confirmed that 30-year-old Travon Alexander has been charged with murder in the death of 33-year-old Joel Jenkins.
Incident Overview
The incident occurred during what was reportedly a casual gathering among acquaintances, where a game of dominoes turned violent. According to investigators, an argument erupted between Alexander and Jenkins during the game, leading to a fatal confrontation.
Police say that tensions escalated quickly, and at some point during the altercation, Alexander allegedly produced a firearm and shot Jenkins. The shooting left neighbors and witnesses shocked, especially given the seemingly low-stakes setting of the argument.
Officers responded to the scene following 911 calls reporting gunfire and a person down. When they arrived, they found Jenkins suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Arrest and Charges
Beaumont Police launched an immediate investigation into the homicide, gathering evidence from the scene and interviewing witnesses. Based on statements and forensic evidence, authorities were able to identify Travon Alexander as the suspect.
He was taken into custody without incident and has been officially charged with murder. He is currently being held at the Jefferson County Jail, with bond and court appearances pending. Police have not confirmed whether the firearm used in the shooting has been recovered.
Community Reeling from Senseless Violence
The incident has rattled the Beaumont community, particularly because it took place in what was supposed to be a friendly, recreational setting. Friends and family of Joel Jenkins are mourning the loss of a man they describe as good-natured and kind.
“This wasn’t supposed to happen. Nobody should lose their life over a game,” said one friend of Jenkins. “Joel was just hanging out. He didn’t deserve this.”
Neighbors in the area described hearing a commotion before shots rang out, followed by a flurry of police activity. Many expressed disbelief that something as minor as a dispute during a dominoes game could end in tragedy.
Authorities Emphasize De-escalation
Beaumont Police officials have emphasized the importance of conflict resolution and de-escalation in emotionally charged situations. While the investigation remains ongoing, police are using the incident to highlight the dangers of unresolved tensions and the deadly consequences of resorting to violence.
“We see time and time again how quickly a disagreement can turn into a deadly encounter when a firearm is involved,” said a spokesperson for the Beaumont Police Department. “This tragedy underscores the need for calm heads and peaceful resolutions—especially in social settings among friends or acquaintances.”
Investigation Continues
Though an arrest has been made, the case remains under active investigation. Detectives are continuing to gather statements and examine any additional evidence, including surveillance footage and forensic details, to piece together the exact sequence of events leading up to the shooting.
Police are urging anyone with additional information about the incident or those present during the game to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers of Southeast Texas at 409-833-TIPS (8477).
What We Know So Far:
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Date of Incident: Recent, exact date pending official release
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Location: Beaumont, TX
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Victim: Joel Jenkins, 33
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Suspect: Travon Alexander, 30
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Charge: Murder
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Circumstances: Shooting followed a disturbance during a game of dominoes
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Status: Alexander in custody; investigation ongoing
A Community Mourns, A Family Grieves
As police work to finalize their investigation, a family is left to grieve the sudden, violent loss of a loved one. Joel Jenkins’ death adds to a growing number of fatal incidents in Texas related to interpersonal disputes escalating into deadly violence.
A candlelight vigil is reportedly being organized by friends and relatives, who want to remember Jenkins for the person he was, not the way he died.
More updates are expected as authorities continue to develop the case and move forward with prosecution.
If you have information about the case, call Beaumont Police or Crime Stoppers of Southeast Texas at 409-833-TIPS. Your tip could help bring full closure to this investigation.