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JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) – Just a week after celebrating his graduation from Hampton High School, 18-year-old Jaylen Burleson was on the cusp of embarking on a new journey in life. Tragically, his future was cut short, leaving his family to grieve the loss of a young man they describe as diligent, devoted, and full of potential.
The Carter County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies were dispatched to Earl McKinney Road following a shooting incident around 4:00 a.m. on Friday. Jaylen’s uncle, Jeremy Burleson, rushed to the scene, only to be met with a chilling sense of dread.
“I knew something was terribly wrong when I noticed more police than ambulances or EMTs,” Jeremy Burleson recounted. “Upon arriving at my daughter’s home, the driveway was obstructed by several police vehicles, preventing us from entering.”
Authorities later confirmed the tragic death of Jaylen Burleson. In a statement, the Carter County Sheriff’s Office announced that 19-year-old Morland Orvil Whitely has been charged with first-degree murder and possession of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony.
Jaylen Burleson was later confirmed dead. The Carter County Sheriff’s Office confirmed in a release that Morland Orvil Whitely, 19, was charged with first-degree murder and the possession of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony.
Family members described Jaylen as someone deeply rooted in his faith and dedicated to helping others.
His uncle said Jaylen had been working alongside him and members of their church to help build the Christian Life Center and assist people throughout the community. Jaylen had secured a job following high school and his passion was diesel mechanics, his uncle told News Channel 11.
“He been working with me and several of the guys at the church,” Jeremy Burleson said. “We’ve been building the Christian Life Center, been working with some of the local people in the community.”
As the family copes with the tragedy, Jeremy Burleson said their faith has become a source of strength and comfort.
“Choose Jesus and choose life,” he said. “I do know that Jaylen did that.”
Despite the heartbreak, Burleson said he believes his nephew’s faith carried him into eternity.
“I do believe his last breath was his first breath,” he said. “That’s the way I believe, hope and faith. That’s what allows me to process this and that’s what allows me to be here. Even though there are tears. It’s not all about tears and sadness. I hate that he lost at such a young age but I also have to say that there was a great purpose from my God to allow him to go that fast.”
Burleson added the family invites the community to come together to celebrate Jayden’s life.