The case started with what seemed like a familiar visit—a knock at the door of someone already known to the visitor. But by the end of that afternoon, a 73-year-old man’s life had ended, and investigators were left examining a situation filled with troubling details about what unfolded inside the home.
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On December 1, 2025, officers responded to a residence on Jiroch Street near Irwin Avenue. They found 73-year-old Thomas Lee Stewart Sr. inside, fatally shot in the upper body. The scene showed signs of a possible robbery—his wallet on the floor and pockets turned out.
Authorities say the suspect was not a stranger. Sixteen-year-old Kemaree Davis, identified in court documents, allegedly knew Stewart beforehand. Police believe Davis went to the home seeking money. In a later interview, Davis reportedly told investigators that Stewart gave him $20 after finding him inside. Davis claimed the gun discharged accidentally during the encounter.
Investigators noted that after the shooting, Davis allegedly took another $20 from the victim’s wallet, which was found near the body. That sequence—entry, interaction, shooting, and removal of cash—shaped the case.
One message sent afterward drew particular attention. About an hour later, Davis allegedly texted a friend: “The old man is dead. Bro, I watched him gasp his last breath.” The content of that text added a layer of complexity to the investigation, prompting questions about the moments following the incident.
The recipient of the message, a 17-year-old, later faced related charges, including perjury after testimony that reportedly did not align with other evidence.
Davis was located about a week after the incident during a traffic stop. Police say he tried to run but was apprehended. He now faces charges of open murder and armed robbery and is being tried as an adult.
The decision to charge a juvenile as an adult in a serious case like this brings up important considerations about accountability and the legal process for young offenders. The court will examine the full timeline, the condition of the scene, and all available evidence to determine what occurred.
Thomas Lee Stewart Sr. was in his own home—a place most people consider safe—when the incident happened. For those who knew him, the loss is deeply personal.
As the case moves forward, it highlights how quickly a situation can change and the lasting impact of such events. Messages and communications often play a key role in modern investigations, providing additional context for authorities.
The charges are allegations at this stage, and the judicial process will determine the facts based on the evidence presented. At the center remains a difficult question: what exactly happened in those critical moments inside the home that day?