On December 10, 2025, Jasper County deputies attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle reported stolen by the Beaumont Police Department, which led to a pursuit. The suspect vehicle crashed at the intersection of County Road 803 and County Road 797, just east of Highway 62 in Buna. Three black males fled on foot into nearby woods, prompting a large-scale manhunt.
Later that day, at approximately 2:34 p.m., Hardin County Sheriff Mark Davis notified Jasper County Sheriff Chuck Havard that two black males were walking along FM 2246 in south Jasper County. Deputies responded immediately and took both individuals into custody.
The suspects were identified as 19-year-old Ja’Shawn Thompson and 21-year-old Rashode Wiltz, both from Beaumont. The third suspect, arrested earlier in the day, is a juvenile. All three are now in custody and are being transported to the Jasper County Jail, facing multiple criminal charges.
The investigation remains ongoing. Sheriff Havard extended his gratitude to Hardin County Sheriff Mark Davis, Jasper County deputies, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Aircraft, DPS, and local citizens for their assistance in apprehending the suspects.
