Dayton Jury Convicted Man in Deadly Shooting
A 28-year-old man was found guilty of murder and other charges related to the 2025 killing of Paul Body.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Violence
A jury found 28-year-old Damarez Jones guilty of multiple charges, including murder, in connection with the July 8, 2025, death of 42-year-old Paul Body. The verdict followed approximately two and a half hours of deliberation.
Why it matters
The conviction concludes a significant criminal trial in Dayton, though additional legal proceedings remain regarding weapons possession charges that were decided separately by the judge.
The jury deliberated for two and a half hours before convicting Damarez Jones on counts of murder, felonious assault, tampering with evidence, and firearm discharge. A verdict on three remaining weapons charges is scheduled to be delivered by the judge on October 13, 2026.
The players
Damarez Jones
He is a 28-year-old defendant who was convicted of murder and related charges.
Paul Body
He was a 42-year-old victim who died in the July 2025 shooting incident.
E. Gerald Parker Jr.
He is the judge presiding over the case who will issue the remaining verdict on weapons charges.
The details
Jones was convicted after a woman who was in the vehicle at the time of the shooting identified him as the person who shot Body from the back seat. The defense had previously filed a notice of self-defense regarding the incident.
Timeline
July 8, 2025: Paul Body was shot and killed.
Week of September 14, 2026: Jury returned a guilty verdict.
September 21, 2026: Weapons charges verdict remains pending.
October 13, 2026: Sentencing and remaining verdict expected.
Legal Context
This case follows the standard procedural path for violent felony prosecutions in the Montgomery County court system. The conviction marks the judicial resolution of the 2025 shooting death of Paul Body.
The conclusion of this trial provides closure to the specific incident and underscores the ongoing efforts of the local justice system to address violent crime. Residents should note that the court process remains active until the final sentencing date in October.
The takeaway
The jury's quick deliberation highlights the weight of the evidence presented during the trial. The case serves as a reminder of the judicial procedures followed in the Dayton area for serious firearm-related offenses.
What happens next
Damarez Jones is scheduled to appear in court for sentencing and the delivery of the final verdict on weapons charges on October 13, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on legal developments in the region, visit the Violence section.
