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Two boys were gunned down in their sleep 21 years ago. Their killer remains free.

texas
Source: Texas Department of Public Safety

Nov. 9 2021, Published 9:33 a.m. ET

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More than 20 years ago, two brothers who were not yet old enough to drive were gunned down in their sleep.

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Their mom, who was shot herself, fought off the attacker before the suspect fled the house. To this day, that suspect remains free and the case of the boys’ killing has gone cold.

The murders of 12-year-old Derrick Jackson and 14-year-old James Edwards remain one of Texas’ most prominent cold cases. There is a $3,000 reward for information that can lead to an arrest and anyone with information is asked to call (800) 252-8477.

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On Sept. 23, 1990, an intruder entered the boy’s apartment in Vernon, Texas, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. The suspect shot the two boys. The children died from their gunshot wounds.

The boy’s mother, Linda Jackson, got in a struggle with the suspect. She was shot three times and the suspect fled, according to authorities.

Another brother, Layman Jackson, 23, escaped through a window.

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In 2010, the victims’ siblings spoke with KFDX. Patricia Jackson questioned who doesn’t have regard for children.

“They’ve gotten away with murder, and I want justice,” Jackson said.

The boy’s brother, Lester Jackson, also spoke to KFDX and said he planned to pursue the case until the killer was found.

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“I know they’re at peace because they’re in the good Lord’s hands. But, I want justice for them, and I won’t stop until i get it. I won’t stop until I get it. Trust me, I’ll do that. If it takes me a lifetime,” Lester Jackson said.

The killer was described as a black man who stood between 5-feet-8-inches tall and 5-feet-10-inches tall. The suspect also had a heavy build. Police said they believe the suspect has ties to the Austin, Texas, area.

Now, 21 years after the boy’s killing, the suspect’s ties are unknown, and he remains free.

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