Ferris, Texas — A violent altercation at a local park escalated dramatically over the weekend, resulting in a fatal shooting that has left the community in shock. The incident occurred at Jerry Watson Park around 2 p.m. on Saturday, involving more than ten individuals, including juveniles and young adults.
According to city officials, the confrontation began as a physical altercation before multiple participants drew firearms, leading to an exchange of gunfire. Seventeen-year-old Sir Robert Wesley Dixon was critically injured during the exchange, suffering a gunshot wound to the neck, and was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. Another juvenile was also injured and received treatment.
In the aftermath, a 15-year-old male, suspected of shooting Dixon, was taken into custody and is now facing a murder charge. Authorities have yet to release the identity of the suspect.
The chaos did not end with Dixon’s shooting. Following the incident, a man, whose name remains undisclosed, reportedly seized a firearm that had belonged to Dixon and fired at the alleged shooter, inadvertently wounding the second juvenile. This individual has been arrested and faces charges that include aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and unlawful possession of a firearm.
Investigators have noted that they are actively pursuing leads and seeking additional suspects connected to the shooting. The city’s Department of Public Safety is collaborating closely with the Ellis County sheriff’s office and the district attorney’s office to gather more information and ensure community safety.
Local authorities are appealing to the public for assistance and are urging anyone with information related to the incident to contact Ferris police at 972-544-2225. As the investigation unfolds, community leaders are grappling with the ramifications of the incident, calling for increased dialogue about youth violence and gun safety in the area.
This tragic event underscores ongoing concerns regarding gun violence, particularly among younger demographics, and has reignited discussions among residents about the urgency of creating safer environments in Ferris and surrounding communities.