The Texas singer was shot while signing autographs after a show with The Black Academy of Arts and Letters.
Jada Arnell Thomas’s performance at an event in downtown Dallas took a tragic turn. Fans have since flooded social media with heartfelt messages to the 26-year-old.
Jada Arnell Thomas attends The Black Academy of Arts and Letters 5th Annual Riverfront Jazz Festival at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas in Dallas, Texas, on September 2, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
In a letter addressed to the Dallas Mayor and City Council, the Dallas Police Department reported that officers arrived at the scene around 5:50 p.m. on November 2, 2024. Upon arrival, they found Thomas suffering from a gunshot wound after an audience member had shot her.
Jada Arnell Thomas performs on stage during The Black Academy of Arts and Letters 5th Annual Riverfront Jazz Festival at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas, in Dallas, Texas, on September 2, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
According to the police statement, Thomas was transported to a nearby hospital and is reported to be in stable condition. Authorities identified the suspect as 26-year-old Micah Williams, who was subsequently arrested and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
An arrest affidavit notes that police detained the suspect in a hotel lobby near 205 North Akard Street after a witness signaled them while they were en route to the shooting scene. As officers apprehended her, she attempted to sit on her purse, where they later found a handgun.
According to the affidavit, witnesses recalled interacting with her prior to the incident and described her demeanor as unusual and detached.
Now, online jail records show Williams is currently held in Dallas County Jail on a $200,000 bond. It remains unclear if she has entered a plea or has legal representation.
Police noted in their statement that the investigation is ongoing. Whether there was any prior connection between Thomas and Williams is still unknown.
A recuperating Thomas has shared a statement with her fans on her Instagram account, “God’s grace, mercy, and overwhelming love will NEVER cease to amaze me. Thank you to everyone who has called, texted, and came [sic] to see me. I love you all so much! The road to recovery will be extremely hard, but my faith in the Lord has never been stronger!”
Curtis King, founder and director of The Black Academy of Arts and Letters (TBAAL), addressed the incident. He recounted the surreal moment when a shot rang out amidst the bustling crowd waiting for autographs after a full-house performance.
Thomas has just performed during the Talk Back, a show she was proud to put on with two other female artists. King was disappointed that the suspected shooter had shattered what he called their “safe haven” due to her ill “motives.”
Lucki Azariah, Rachel Webb, Curtis King, and Jada Arnell Thomas attend The Black Academy of Arts and Letters 5th Annual Riverfront Jazz Festival at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas in Dallas, Texas, on September 2, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
In a Facebook post on November 3, he reassured followers that Thomas was recovering and highlighted her strength and resilience. King encouraged continued prayers for everyone touched by her music and ministry, noting that she remains a “courageously strong, resilient, and devout child of GOD.”
Fans of Thomas have expressed an outpouring of support after the shocking incident but are relieved that she is on the road to recovery.
One fan shared their relief, “Very happy to hear she will be fine! Prayers for the entire TBAAL family.” Another fan added, “This is absolutely heartbreaking….thank God Jada is still here.”
Some viewers who felt hopeful due to a recent news update, commented, “I was sad to hear about this, encouraged by your comments last night on the news Mr King. Praying for Ms Jada and TBAAL.”
Other well-wishers sent positive vibes her way, expressing, “We are so happy to hear this give thanks!!! May her healing be fast and complete! Stay strong Jada!” Another fan echoed these sentiments, “Oh my goodness. This is horrific but I know God will pull her through.” Sharing relief, one person posted, “Glad she’s stable! Praying for a complete recovery. 🙏🏾❤️”
Many, however, were dismayed by the act, with one user calling it, “Horrible.” Another person shared a firm stance, “That person needs to be in jail🔐!” and one person simply expressed, “Man this is sad.”
Thomas’s parents, Carlton and Olivia Thomas have expressed deep gratitude for the prayers and support from her fans, friends, and followers. They reaffirmed that Thomas is steadily recovering, thanks to both divine grace and the unwavering well-wishes from her community.
They conveyed her heartfelt message of love and appreciation to everyone supporting her healing journey. While they value the overwhelming response, they request privacy and patience as Thomas continues to recuperate.
The family added, “She’ll eventually read and welcome all of the social media posts; however, we have to curtail and limit personal visits. Jada will sing again and it will be because of God’s grace and your prayers.”
The overwhelming prayers and support for Thomas have shown just how cherished she is by her community. As she continues to heal, it’s clear that the love surrounding her will help pave the way for a remarkable comeback.