Alexandria police make first 2026 homicide arrest in Magnolia Street case

Alexandria police announced the arrest of Areon Jones, 33, in what the department is calling the first homicide arrest of 2026. Officers responded to the 1100 block of Magnolia Street on January 15 at about 8:50 a.m. after a caller reported a dead body; Jones was arrested shortly after the discovery and charged with second-degree murder.

The identity of the victim has been withheld pending family notification. Police noted both the victim and Jones were experiencing homelessness, adding a layer of urgency to outreach and safety work around encampments and street-level homelessness in the city. Jones was booked into Rapides Parish Detention Center 1 with bond set at $1,000,000.

APD Chief Chad Gremillion highlighted the speed of the response. “This reflects the swift and coordinated response of our officers and investigators. Within three hours of the initial call, a suspect was identified and taken into custody, which speaks to the dedication of our personnel and their commitment to public safety.” The department said investigators moved quickly to identify and detain a suspect, and the investigation remains active.

For the community the case highlights two practical concerns: immediate public safety in neighborhoods around Magnolia Street and the broader challenge of protecting people living outdoors. Rapid investigative work can reassure residents, but the fact that both parties involved were unhoused points to gaps in services and outreach that local agencies, shelters, and volunteers will need to address to prevent repeat tragedies.

If you were in the area or have information that could help investigators, contact the Alexandria Police Department. Expect updates as charges proceed and as detectives complete forensic work and witness interviews. The high bond signals prosecutors view the case as serious, and the next steps will include formal arraignment and pretrial proceedings.

This arrest brings attention to downtown and near-downtown safety during a period when homelessness and public health are frequent community conversations. Watch for official notices from police on follow-up actions and for local service providers to coordinate outreach to vulnerable people on the streets. What comes next is a continued criminal investigation and, for the community, a renewed push to balance public safety with compassionate shelter and services for those living without stable housing.