SUMMARY: BJ Brown, accused of killing Cassandra Jones in New Orleans and shooting a police officer while on the run, died in a Tennessee prison while serving a life sentence for the officer’s shooting. Brown, who shot Jones in a brutal attack captured on video, was facing prosecution in New Orleans. His death, confirmed without foul play, occurred before he could stand trial for Jones’s murder. Local officials, including New Orleans District Attorney Jason Williams, expressed regret that Brown passed away before facing justice in New Orleans. A medical examiner will determine the cause of death.

A man accused of fatally shooting a New Orleans mother has died in a Tennessee prison, local authorities confirmed Monday.

B.J. Brown, 34, died while serving a life sentence for attempted murder of a Tennessee police officer, according to officials.

In June 2022, police said Brown killed his one-time girlfriend, Cassandra Jones, in the 1400 block of Iberville Street. A witness told authorities Brown shot Jones in the back. A video reportedly showed a man with a long gun shooting Jones multiple times as she struggled on the ground.

“This very violent perpetrator took Ms. Jones’ life in a very brazen way,” Orleans District Attorney Jason Williams said. It’s on video – and went on the run.

While evading New Orleans police, Brown shot an officer during a traffic stop in Erin, Tennessee, leading to his life sentence in that state.

Erin Police Chief Mark Moore said while his department and his injured officer got justice with Brown’s life sentence, he is saddened that Brown died before being prosecuted for his crimes in New Orleans.

“I vowed to my citizens during the manhunt that we wouldn’t rest until he was located and prosecuted, and justice served whether it be by a jury or Jesus,” Moore told WWL Louisiana. “I guess both of them happened in quick time.”

Tennessee prison officials released few details about Brown’s death.

They confirmed he died on Sunday and that there didn’t appear to be any signs of foul play.

“I’m just learning the fate of him this morning,” Chief Moore said. “I’m not sure of the details of that. There’s an ongoing investigation.”

“The Lord saw fit to take him away sooner,” Williams said. “That is one brand of justice. But I really was looking forward to get him back in our jurisdiction.”

A medical examiner is now expected to determine Brown’s cause of death.

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