Mt. Vernon Police have made another arrest in connection with a weekend shooting that claimed two lives and led to five other injuries.
Jamaro Kemmerling has been charged in Jefferson County Court with aggravated discharge of a firearm and unlawful possession of a firearm by a repeat felony offender.
The first court appearance on the case was held without Kemmerling’s presence as Jefferson County Sheriff’s officials say he refused to leave his cell. Kemmerling has indicated he plans to hire his own attorney.
The prosecution’s request that Kemmerling be held without bond was approved by Judge Jerry Crisel. An August 6th arraignment hearing was set.
The first person arrested in connection with the shootings has now had charges dismissed without prejudice, which means prosecutors could refile them. 22-year-old Jerria Smith had been charged with reckless discharge of a firearm and obstruction of justice.
Mt. Vernon Police say the investigation into the shooting at a party in the 600 block of South 15th is still in its early stages with detectives actively developing leads and gathering evidence. Additional arrests and charges are anticipated as the investigation continues into what Mt. Vernon Police are calling a senseless act of gun violence.
Police are urging anyone with information regarding this incident to contact the Mt. Vernon Police Department at 618-242-2131 or Crime Stoppers at 618-242-8477 (TIPS).
