Jaymie McWilliams, a former student at W.T. White High School, is honoring Dallas ISD officer Justin Jones following his shooting incident. McWilliams stated she was not surprised by Jones’ decision to intervene in a crisis, citing his consistent character and dedication to helping others.
District officials confirmed that Jones, a 16-year veteran of the force, was shot on Thursday in a Sam’s Club parking lot located near the intersection of Interstate 635 and Midway Road. He remains hospitalized and is currently in the early stages of his recovery.
McWilliams, who graduated from W.T. White High School in 2022, described Jones as more than a school resource officer during her senior year. She recalled him attending her prom and college soccer signing day, noting that their relationship extended well beyond professional duties.
"Jones never failed to not make anyone smile," McWilliams said. "Anyone who knew me in high school knew Officer Jones was not far behind me in a good or a bad way. He was always there."
While Jones’ actions in the parking lot reflect his known personality, McWilliams expressed shock that the individual he was assisting responded with violence. She emphasized that his character made his intervention predictable, but the outcome was unexpected.
"Because of his character, I wasn't surprised that he was helping somebody, but for the person he was helping to, you know, just turn around with an act of violence really took me by surprise," she said.
