Jacksonville Teen Murder Case Remains Unsolved Nearly Two Decades Later as Investigators Search for Killers

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Nearly two decades later, the people responsible for killing a Jacksonville teenager remain unidentified, and investigators are still asking for the public’s help.

BJ was only 19 when he died. To his family, he was a vibrant young man who brought energy and kindness wherever he went. His cousin, Tylynn Larry, was just 9 years old the last time she spent a day with him.

Larry remembers BJ making the day all about her. He took her along as he ran errands, bought her something nearly everywhere they stopped and even brought her to McDonald’s several times. She said he made her feel special simply because he wanted to.

BJ shared his talents by teaching dance and art, and music was another major part of his life. He also worked as a swim coach. His father, Barry Brooks Sr., continues to carry the grief of losing his son.

Brooks said he still has BJ’s phone and saved voicemail messages. Hearing his son’s voice, he said, gives him a way to feel connected whenever he needs it.

On Nov. 18, 2007, BJ spent the day with his relatives before heading that evening to Mission Springs Apartments on Timuquana Road. The complex is now known as The Villas at Ortega. Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Cold Case Detective Travis Oliver Sr. said BJ arrived with his girlfriend to visit someone he knew.

The friend was not in the apartment BJ initially visited and had gone to another building. As BJ tried to leave and find him, investigators say several people in the complex confronted him and attempted to rob him.

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BJ was transported to a hospital, where he later died. Police found no witnesses to the shooting and no surveillance footage capturing what happened.

Oliver told First Coast News that several detectives have revisited the case over the years. Investigators have also used updated technology to examine the limited evidence available, but the lack of information has continued to hinder the investigation.

After years of working the case, Oliver said he believes the breakthrough will likely come from someone who knows more than they have revealed.

For BJ’s family, the passage of 19 years has done little to ease the pain of his death.

Brooks recalled struggling with the idea that his son was gone. Although a pastor reminded him that BJ was in heaven, Brooks said his instinct as a father was to protect him and be by his side, even in death.

Now, the family is hoping someone with information will find the courage to come forward and help secure justice for BJ.

Brooks urged anyone who knows something not to wait until a similar tragedy affects their own family. He said speaking up can help victims and families in this case and in other unsolved crimes.

Anyone with information that could help solve BJ’s murder is asked to contact the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office or First Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS. Tips may be submitted anonymously, and a caller could qualify for a reward of up to $5,000.