Minneapolis, Hennepin County (trfnews.i234.me) – In a terrifying incident that nearly turned fatal, 28-year-old Thomas John Jones of Minneapolis is now facing six felony charges after allegedly opening fire on a vehicle carrying five people, including two small children, and shooting a woman in the face.
The shooting occurred on May 19 near 2400 4th Street North. Police responded to a ShotSpotter alert and found nine .45 caliber casings at the scene. At the same time, a woman showed up at North Memorial Hospital with a bullet wound to the center of her face. The round fractured her nose, damaged her sinuses, broke her orbital bone, and caused a brain bleed.
She told police that Jones, whom she recognized, stepped into the street and fired multiple rounds into the vehicle. Two young children, aged 4 and 7, were also in the car. Bullet holes were found in the windshield, driver’s headrest, and rear window.
Jones was later arrested. He initially denied involvement, but admitted to the shooting after police confronted him with surveillance footage. He claimed it stemmed from a dispute involving his younger brother and someone in the vehicle. Jones then disposed of the firearm.
Despite having two recent felony convictions, including one just two months prior, Jones was only given probation. He’s now being held on $200,000 bail with conditions or $250,000 without.
Jones faces up to 10 years in prison. Police say more charges may be filed as the victim’s medical records are reviewed.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.