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The driver authorities say was responsible for his best friend’s death after a night of fun at last year’s Neshoba County Fair has been charged in the investigation.
Jonmark Gibson was charged with culpable negligence homicide in the death of his friend, Jeb Stuart. Gibson turned himself in and was released on a $35,000.
We spoke with Stuart’s mother, who did not want her son’s best friend charged with a crime
“Jonmark is living his punishment every day because he knows what happened to his ‘brother,’ what happened to his best friend,” says Brandy Stokes, Jeb’s mother.
Stokes says her son was leaving the fair grounds with three friends when the deadly accident happened. Jonmark Gibson was behind the wheel. He apparently lost control of the vehicle and crashed on County Road 147. Gibson and another friend were hurt. Jeb didn’t make it.
“He was a very caring, compassionate, humble and a kind soul,” says Stokes. “He was great child.”
Jeb and Jonmark grew up together and as the boys developed a close friendship over the years, their families essentially became one. Jeb’s mother says that hasn’t changed and she only wants to protect her other “son.”
“His mom and dad have been to the house to talk to us,” says Stokes. “They were like, we hate to even ask you to do this and I’m like I know y’all would do the same for us. And I know that Jeb would want me to do anything I can for Jonmark.”
On May 3, Gibson turned himself in and was charged with Jeb’s death. Even though Jeb’s family didn’t want Jonmark arrested, the district attorney’s office will present the case to a grand jury.
“Then we will see what the grand jury decides,” says Gibson’s attorney, Jeremy Chalmers. “It’s up to the grand jury to look at the evidence and decide if there is enough evidence there to have a trial.”
Jeb’s mother wants Jonmark to have a successful and productive life.
“I think that [Jonmark] could have such a great influence on the community in the future if he is given the chance,” says Stokes.
Stokes’ compassion, understanding and ability to forgive Jonmark is incredible.
The case will likely be presented to a grand jury in August.
