Teen Killed While Trying to Protect Boy from Bullies

A Georgia family is mourning a 16-year-old boy they say was killed while trying to protect a child.

Jalil Jones was shot and killed in Jonesboro, Georgia, on June 19, according to the Clayton County Police Department. Police did not name the victim in their initial statement, but Jalil was later identified by his family in a GoFundMe and in local news reports.

On Wednesday, June 24, authorities announced that Joshua Clinton had been arrested in connection with the teen’s death. Clinton, who online court records show is between 26 and 27 years old, is facing several charges, including murder and cruelty to children.

Jalil’s loved ones say he died acting bravely.

In a GoFundMe created to help his family, the organizer wrote that Jalil died “while trying to protect another young man who was attacked.”

Lyniece Wilkes, a family friend and mentor to Jalil, gave a similar account to WSB-TV and said his death has shaken the community.

“He was well respected,” Wilkes said. “We took a big loss here in Jonesboro.”

Those who knew Jalil remembered him for his courage, kindness and the future he had just begun building.

In the fundraiser, loved ones praised his “bravery and compassion” and said the teen had recently started working with his uncle. He was also excited about getting his driver’s permit and looking forward to new opportunities.

“Jalil had just started working with his uncle and was excited to get his driver’s permit, looking forward to new opportunities and a bright future,” the GoFundMe stated.

Clinton has been charged with murder, reckless conduct, cruelty to children, contributing to the deprivation of a child resulting in serious injury or death, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, battery, tampering with evidence and discharging a firearm near a public roadway, according to online court records reviewed by PEOPLE.

Court records did not show whether Clinton had entered a plea.