In Loving Memory of
The community of Kokomo is grieving the tragic and untimely loss of Jessica M. Tomlinson, a 21-year-old woman whose life was heartbreakingly cut short in a shooting inside her apartment on the evening of February 24, 2026. Jessica, a young mother, wife, and cherished member of her community, leaves behind family, friends, and a 1-month-old infant who is now recovering from injuries sustained during the incident.
A Tragic Evening
According to the Kokomo Police Department, officers responded at approximately 7:04 p.m. to 419 W. Lincoln Road following reports of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Upon arrival, first responders found Jessica on the floor with a gunshot wound to the upper torso. Despite immediate life-saving efforts, she was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Also present in the apartment were Jessica’s husband, 21-year-old Cameron Tomlinson, and their 1-month-old infant. Authorities reported that the infant suffered a gunshot wound to the hand, sustaining significant trauma. The baby was first transported to Community Howard Regional Health Hospital before being transferred to Riley Children’s Hospital, where the infant is currently in stable condition.
Initial reports suggest that the shooting may have occurred accidentally while Jessica was handling a firearm while holding her baby. Police conducted interviews with Cameron Tomlinson, neighbors, and family members, while collecting evidence to understand the full circumstances of this tragic event.
Legal Developments
Following the investigation, Cameron Tomlinson was taken into custody and transported to the Howard County Criminal Justice Center. He faces preliminary charges of Reckless Homicide (Level 5 Felony) under Indiana Code 35-42-1-5 and Criminal Recklessness (Level 6 Felony) under Indiana Code 35-42-2-2. Authorities continue their work to ensure a full and thorough investigation of the tragic incident.
Remembering Jessica
While the details of the tragedy are devastating, those who knew Jessica remember her as a loving, vibrant, and devoted mother and wife. Her friends and family describe her as compassionate, nurturing, and full of life — a young woman whose presence brought joy, warmth, and love into every room she entered.
Even in her brief life, Jessica’s impact was profound. She cherished her family deeply, particularly her newborn child, and she worked to create a life filled with care, laughter, and hope. Her loss leaves an unfillable void in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
A Community in Mourning
The news of Jessica’s death and the shooting of her infant has sent shockwaves through Kokomo. Neighbors, friends, and the broader community are uniting to offer support, comfort, and prayers for the family during this incomprehensible time. Messages of condolence and solidarity have poured in, reflecting the shared grief and sorrow that Jessica’s passing has inspired.
A Life Remembered
Jessica’s life, though tragically short, will not be forgotten. Her kindness, her love for her child, and the moments of joy she brought to those around her will continue to live on in memory. Friends and family are holding tightly to the love she shared, the laughter she inspired, and the legacy of care she left behind.
To her family, may you find strength and solace in the outpouring of love from your community. To her friends, may her memory serve as a reminder to cherish every moment with those you love. And to Jessica — may you rest peacefully, forever remembered, forever cherished, and forever missed.
Even in the midst of tragedy, your light continues to shine in the hearts of those who loved you.







