James Lil James Edwards, a 14-year-old African American boy, was fatally shot in his Vernon, Texas apartment in the early morning hours of September 23, 1990. An unknown intruder entered the family’s home and shot James and his 12-year-old brother, Derrick Jackson, while they were sleeping. Their mother, Linda Jackson, fought off the attacker and was shot several times but survived.

The suspect was described as a Black male about 5 feet 8 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall with a heavy build, and investigators have said he may have ties to Austin, Texas. The Texas Department of Public Safety lists the case among its top cold cases and offers a $3,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. The family continues to press for answers, with James’ brother Layman Jackson vowing not to stop seeking justice.

Anyone with information is asked to submit tips through the Texas DPS Cold Case website or contact the Missing Persons Clearinghouse. Did anyone in Vernon or Austin at the time hear or see anything that could help solve this case?