ANNAPOLIS, Md. — In a significant development for the Annapolis community, Roscoe Jerome Jones, 31, was arrested on April 7, 2025, in connection with the tragic shooting that left 36-year-old John Simms Jr. dead and an 11-year-old boy injured near a school bus stop. The arrest, which took place around 7:11 a.m., was executed by the U.S. Marshals Service in collaboration with the Metropolitan Police Department and the Annapolis Police Department.
The incident occurred on March 19, 2025, in the 100 block of Clay Street, during a busy morning when children were present. John Simms Jr. succumbed to gunshot wounds at the scene, while the young boy, who was shot in the foot, was transported to Johns Hopkins Children's Center in Baltimore and is expected to recover.
According to police reports, the shooting was precipitated by an argument between Jones and Simms, escalating into a violent confrontation. Police Chief Ed Jackson described the chaotic scene, emphasizing the trauma experienced by children who witnessed the shooting. “You had a lot of kids out there,” he noted, highlighting the emotional impact on the community. “Thinking about the kids and what kind of trauma they're going through by seeing that, them going to school and thinking about that. I saw some kids walking to school that were crying. We don't realize the trauma that this has on a neighborhood.”
In the aftermath of the shooting, police intensified their presence in the area, previously noted for an uptick in crime. “It's everybody's business when we have homicides in the street at 7:40 in the morning where kids, and it could have been anybody's kid, struck by that bullet trying to get to school,” Jackson added.
Following the shooting, authorities launched a manhunt for Jones, who has a history of violent crime. A warrant for his arrest was issued the same night of the incident. The collaborative efforts of federal and local law enforcement ultimately led to his capture in Washington, D.C.
“The apprehension of Roscoe Jones is a testament to the dedication and collaboration of our law enforcement partners,” Chief Jackson stated. “I want to thank the U.S. Marshals Service, the Metropolitan Police Department, Annapolis detectives, and every officer who played a role in bringing this suspect to justice. We remain committed to relentlessly pursuing those who threaten the safety of our community and will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that Annapolis remains a safe place for all.”
Currently, Jones is facing charges of murder and assault. The extradition process is pending as authorities prepare for his prosecution. The Annapolis Police Department is urging anyone with information regarding the case to step forward. Tips can be directed to Detective Courtney Moore at 443-714-0088 or via email at [email protected], or to Detective J. Liebross at 410-562-7520 or [email protected]. Additionally, anonymous tips can be submitted to the U.S. Marshals at 1-877-WANTED2 or through their website.
The community continues to grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event, reflecting on the loss of life and the impact of violence on families and children. Shatoya Larkins, the mother of Simms Jr.’s daughter, expressed her grief, stating, “Now my daughter doesn’t have a father, the only man she will ever know.”
As the investigation unfolds, Annapolis residents remain vigilant and supportive of each other, seeking to foster a sense of safety and security in their neighborhoods. The police have vowed to maintain a strong presence in the area, reassuring citizens that their safety remains a top priority.
In light of this incident, community leaders are calling for increased dialogue around gun violence and its effects on families. The shooting has sparked conversations about the need for more resources and support for at-risk youth and families in the Annapolis area.
As the legal proceedings against Jones commence, the Annapolis community is left to mourn the loss of John Simms Jr. and support the recovery of the young boy injured in the shooting. The hope is that through collective efforts, such tragedies can be prevented in the future, ensuring that children can safely navigate their neighborhoods and attend school without fear.
In the coming weeks, community forums and discussions are expected to take place, focusing on strategies to address violence and promote healing within the Annapolis community. The road to recovery may be long, but the commitment to creating a safer environment for all remains steadfast.
