Rush Propst (Jason Getz/AJC)
Colquitt County, the reigning AAAAA state champions, has indefinitely suspended starting running back TyKerrius "Grump" Jones.
Jones, a rising junior, was arrested and charged with murder and criminal attempt to commit armed robbery in the July 5 death of 68-year-old John Hester, according to the Moultrie Observer.
The running back, who averaged more than 10 yards per carry last season, was one of seven teens charged in the murder of Hester.
"First and foremost my thoughts and prayers are with the family of the victim," Colquitt County head coach Rush Propst said in a statement to Score Atlanta on Friday. "Secondarily, Grump has been suspended from all football activities and we will allow for the legal process to take its course.
“I have been sick all day. From the time I heard the news I have been numb. My heart goes out to the Hester family as they grieve their loss and I don’t know what I am going to tell those kids back at the hotel about their teammate and former teammates. This is something I have never thought I would have to deal with.”
Two former Colquitt County players — I-Key Pinkins and Brandon Wynn — were also charged in the case.
“This is a very tragic, very sobering situation,” Propst said. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Hester family and everyone affected by this crime.”
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