Father Arrested In Shooting Death Of Autistic Boy, 9

COMPTON, CA — Police arrested a man on suspicion of shooting to death his 9-year-old son outside the boy's grandfather's home in Compton over the weekend. The child, who was reportedly autistic, was also the victim of child abuse, the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department announced Monday.

Nicholas Jones, 32, of Compton, was arrested Sunday and booked on suspicion of murder and child abuse resulting in the death of his son, according to the sheriff's department.

The boy's mother described her devastation at the loss of her son, Princeton Jones, who was shot as he played outside his grandfather’s home Sunday at about 7:40 p.m. in the 15000 block of South Haskins Avenue.

``My goal ... was to give him the proper teachings and all the things that he needed in order to navigate this world independently one day," Creole Green told ABC7. ``I'm just devastated that my son's life ... the door was shut in front of him at 9 years old."

His mother posted a GoFundMe page to raise money for Princeton's funeral.

"This senseless act has left our family devastated and searching for answers as the investigation remains ongoing," she wrote.

"We are heartbroken to share the tragic loss of Princeton Nicholas Jones, a bright, loving 9-year-old whose life was taken far too soon. Born in 2015, Princeton was a truly special young man with a brilliant mind and a warm heart. Diagnosed with mild autism at the age of 2, Princeton worked tirelessly with the loving support of his mother and began speaking fluently by the age of 5," she added.

"Princeton was a beacon of joy, lighting up every room he entered with his humor and infectious smile. He was adored by his friends, family, and community, who all cherished the incredible person he was becoming."

The boy's father is being held on $2 million bail, according to the sheriff's department.

Police did not release details about the circumstances that led up to the shooting nor the details around Jones' arrest.

Sheriff's deputies had been called to the scene to respond to a report of a gunshot victim.

"Upon arrival, deputies located a ... male juvenile in the backyard of the residence suffering from a gunshot wound to his body," sheriff's officials said. "This investigation is ongoing and there is no additional information available at this time."

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.

City News Service contributed to this report.