Chicago, IL – Teone Jones, a 33-year-old mother also known as Mercedes Jones, never imagined that February 20, 2025, would be her last day alive. The night unfolded in a terrifying sequence of violence, leaving her fatally stabbed, her 11-year-old son critically injured, and her 8-year-old son, Tristen Gaters, at the center of an Amber Alert. The tragic events, rooted in domestic violence, have sent shockwaves through the Chicago community and ignited urgent discussions about intimate partner violence and the protection of children in volatile households.

A Night of Horror: The Fatal Stabbing of Teone Jones

The brutal attack occurred inside a residence located in the 7100 block of South Eberhart Avenue at approximately 6:55 p.m. on Thursday, February 20, 2025. According to authorities, Teone Jones was inside the home when she was violently attacked by her boyfriend, 38-year-old Marcus Bausley. Witnesses reported hearing a commotion, followed by screams of distress.

Neighbors, accustomed to occasional disturbances, initially thought the altercation was a routine argument. However, the intensity of the noises quickly escalated, prompting a concerned resident to call 911. When emergency responders arrived at the scene, they discovered a horrifying sight: Jones lying in a pool of blood, suffering from multiple stab wounds to her back and abdomen.

Desperate Fight for Life: Emergency Response and Hospitalization

Chicago Fire Department paramedics immediately provided life-saving measures as they rushed Jones to the University of Chicago Hospital. Despite exhaustive efforts by medical personnel, the mother of two succumbed to her injuries shortly after arriving at the hospital. The extent of the injuries suggested an act of extreme rage, further reinforcing the devastating reality of domestic violence cases where victims are often subjected to overkill.

Family members and friends were devastated upon receiving the news of Jones’s passing. Many described her as a loving mother who worked hard to provide for her children. Her tragic end has left her loved ones searching for answers and grappling with unimaginable grief.

The Horror Continues: 11-Year-Old Son Stabbed Multiple Times

As police and emergency responders processed the crime scene, they discovered another horrifying detail—Jones’s 11-year-old son had also been brutally attacked. The young boy, whose name has not been released for privacy reasons, suffered multiple stab wounds inflicted by Bausley in what authorities suspect was an attempt to eliminate witnesses.

Paramedics rushed the critically injured child to Comer Children’s Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery. Medical staff have confirmed that the boy is in serious but stable condition, though the psychological trauma of witnessing his mother’s murder and enduring such violence himself is immeasurable. Authorities are closely monitoring his condition, and counselors have been brought in to provide emotional support as he recovers.

Amber Alert Issued for 8-Year-Old Tristen Gaters

Amid the chaos, another terrifying realization emerged: Jones’s younger son, 8-year-old Tristen Gaters, was missing from the home. Fearing that Bausley had abducted the child, authorities immediately issued an Amber Alert, triggering a widespread search for the suspect and the endangered child. Law enforcement agencies, including the Illinois State Police and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, worked around the clock to locate Tristen and ensure his safety.

Nationwide Search for Marcus Bausley: Suspect Considered Armed and Dangerous

As police pieced together the timeline of events, they identified Marcus Bausley as the primary suspect. Witnesses reported seeing Bausley fleeing the crime scene in a vehicle shortly after the attacks. He was last seen driving a beige 2017 Ford Escape with Illinois license plate DK97105.

Authorities issued an all-points bulletin (APB) and urged the public to remain vigilant. Due to the violent nature of the crimes, law enforcement officials warned that Bausley was considered armed and dangerous. Community members were advised not to approach him but to immediately call 911 if they spotted him or the vehicle.

The Breakthrough: Tristen Gaters Found Safe

After hours of frantic searching, law enforcement officials located Tristen Gaters unharmed. While specific details regarding his recovery have not yet been released, authorities confirmed that he was safe, leading to the cancellation of the Amber Alert.

The relief of finding Tristen alive, however, was overshadowed by the grim reality of the violence that had unfolded. Family members were grateful that the young boy had not been physically harmed, but they remain deeply concerned about the long-term emotional and psychological effects of losing his mother in such a violent manner.

Community Response: Outrage and Calls for Action

The shocking events have left the Chicago community grappling with grief and outrage. Advocacy groups and domestic violence prevention organizations are using the tragedy to highlight the urgent need for stronger protections for victims of intimate partner violence. Many are calling for increased funding for shelters, support services, and legal measures to prevent abusers from escalating to lethal violence.

Local activists have organized vigils in memory of Teone Jones, with many attendees emphasizing the need for community intervention in domestic violence cases. Residents have expressed frustration over the warning signs that may have been overlooked, questioning whether more could have been done to prevent this tragedy.

Domestic Violence in America: A Growing Crisis

This devastating incident underscores the ongoing crisis of domestic violence in the United States. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), an average of three women are killed every day in the U.S. by a current or former partner. Many victims remain trapped in abusive relationships due to fear, financial dependence, or systemic barriers that make it difficult to seek help.

Advocates stress the importance of early intervention, urging victims to reach out to trusted friends, family members, or organizations that can provide assistance. Public awareness campaigns continue to stress that domestic violence is not just a private issue but a societal crisis that requires collective action.

Where the Case Stands Now: Ongoing Manhunt for Marcus Bausley

As of now, Marcus Bausley remains on the run. Law enforcement officials are working tirelessly to track him down and bring him to justice. Authorities are urging anyone with information on his whereabouts to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted to the Chicago Police Department at cpdtip.org.

Conclusion: Seeking Justice for Teone Jones and Her Family

The tragic murder of Teone Jones, the brutal attack on her 11-year-old son, and the abduction of Tristen Gaters have left an indelible mark on the Chicago community. As police continue their search for Marcus Bausley, the hope remains that justice will be served and that this tragedy will serve as a wake-up call to address domestic violence more effectively.

🚨 If you have any information on the whereabouts of Marcus Bausley, please contact authorities immediately. 🚨