A tragic act of violence has left a community in mourning after a former professional indoor football player was shot and killed while attempting to stop a fight outside a Georgia bar.
Jordan Alexander Jones, 28, of Lawrenceville, Georgia, was fatally shot early Saturday morning outside the Saddle Bar in Acworth. According to police, officers responded to reports of gunfire around 2:40 a.m. in the parking lot of the bar on Cowan Road. When they arrived, they found Jones suffering from a gunshot wound. He was rushed to Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center, where he later died.
Authorities say Jones had been working as a security guard when the incident occurred. Investigators believe he stepped in to break up an altercation in the parking lot after seeing a woman being assaulted. After helping de-escalate the situation, Jones was allegedly shot by 25-year-old Daniel Di Vonne Parsons.
Police say Parsons reportedly retrieved a firearm and shot Jones, with reports indicating that Jones was shot in the back while walking away after the situation had been handled. Parsons, who is from Douglasville, Georgia, was arrested shortly afterward on nearby Baker Road.
He is now facing multiple charges, including felony murder, aggravated assault, and aggravated battery. Authorities say he is currently being held at the Cobb County Jail without bond.
Jones was well known for his athletic talent long before his professional career. He grew up in Gwinnett County and played football at Mountain View High School before continuing his career at the University of West Alabama, where he became a standout player on the team.
After graduating, Jones went on to play professionally in the Indoor Football League, suiting up for teams including the Tulsa Oilers and the San Antonio Gunslingers. He had recently signed with the Michigan Arsenal of Arena Football One and was preparing to play in the upcoming 2026 season.
In a statement, the Indoor Football League expressed its grief over the loss of one of its former players.
“The Indoor Football League mourns the tragic passing of former All-IFL linebacker Jordan Jones. A talented player and respected competitor, Jordan left a lasting mark on the league and those who had the privilege of knowing him.”
Friends and former teammates have remembered Jones as a “gentle giant,” describing him as a loyal friend, dedicated athlete, and someone who always looked out for others.
Jones is survived by his mother, Edwina Jones.
What makes the tragedy even more heartbreaking is that those who knew him say he was simply trying to help and protect someone else when his life was taken.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, teammates, and all those mourning this devastating loss.
