Hinds County District Attorney Jody E. Owens II stated that Ron Allen, 54, has pled guilty to murder in the shooting death of his estranged wife, Maleah Bess, 25.
Allen was sentenced to life in prison with the Mississippi Department of Corrections.
Around noon on July 31, 2025, Jackson police arrived to the Westwood Apartments after receiving reports of a shooting inside the leasing office, where Bess worked as the property manager.
Witnesses informed detectives that a man entered the leasing office just before gunshots were heard.
One witness stated he heard a gunshot and opened the door to find Bess grasping her side. Investigators said the witness shut the door and heard several more gunshots.
Witnesses later attempted to call Bess’ cellphone to check on her. According to authorities, Allen responded by telling them that he had killed her.
When detectives arrived, Allen had holed himself inside the leasing office and refused to surrender, authorities said. SWAT officers established a cordon, and after about two to three hours, Allen emerged and surrendered.
Officers immediately entered the office and discovered Bess dead from multiple gunshot wounds, according to investigators.
Investigators claimed Allen and Bess had been married for less than a year and were separated at the time of the incident.
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