A Michigan judge has sentenced a young boy involved in a tragic carjacking and murder to juvenile detention. The heartbreaking incident took place on a chilly night in Battle Creek, Michigan, on February 17, 2023.
Dewond Estes III, who was just 13 at the time, was out walking in the freezing weather with his friend Justice Chimner, then 14. That night, Jack Snyder, a 17-year-old high school senior, was driving home after celebrating his girlfriend’s birthday. Seeing the two boys outside in the cold, Jack decided to do a kind deed and offered them a ride.
Sadly, his kindness was met with violence. Instead of being grateful, the two boys tried to steal Jack’s car. During the attempted carjacking, Chimner pulled out a gun and shot Jack twice. Jack’s car crashed, and the boys ran away, leaving him behind. Tragically, Jack was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.
Detectives from the Battle Creek Police Department quickly identified Estes and Chimner as suspects. Both boys were arrested, and prosecutors decided to charge them as adults.
In court, Estes admitted to the carjacking but denied being involved in the murder. Despite his claims, investigators discovered evidence that he had FaceTimed a friend, telling them he planned to steal a car. In October, Estes pleaded guilty to carjacking, and the murder charge against him was dropped. On Monday, he was sentenced under a “blended” system. This means he’ll remain in the custody of the Department of Health and Human Services until he turns 18. Every 90 days, he’ll appear before Judge John Hallacy in Calhoun Circuit Court to review his progress. Once he becomes an adult, the judge will decide if Estes should move to the adult corrections system.
As for Chimner, who admitted to the murder last month, he is expected to face a prison sentence of 35 to 60 years when he is sentenced in March.
Jack Snyder was a senior at Battle Creek Central High School and was just months away from graduation. His obituary described him as light-hearted, athletic, and funny, with a passion for soccer that inspired everyone around him. His death has left a deep void in the lives of his family, friends, and school community.
This tragic story serves as a reminder of how devastating violence can be, even in moments where kindness shines through.
