A Michigan boy has been sentenced for his role in a botched carjacking that led to the tragic death of 17-year-old Jack Snyder, a high school senior remembered as “light-hearted, charismatic, athletic, and humorous.”
The incident occurred on February 17, 2023, when Snyder, driving in cold weather, stopped to offer a ride to two boys, Dewond Estes III, then 13, and Justice Chimner, then 14. Instead of gratitude, the teens attempted to carjack him. Chimner shot Snyder twice, causing him to crash the car.
The teens fled the scene, leaving Snyder fatally wounded. Paramedics pronounced him dead shortly after. Detectives from the Battle Creek Police Department swiftly identified Chimner and Estes as suspects and arrested them.
Both were charged as adults. In October, Estes pleaded guilty to carjacking, leading prosecutors to dismiss the murder charge. Chimner, however, pleaded guilty to murder in December and is set to face a sentence of 35 to 60 years in March.
On Monday, Estes received a “blended sentence.” While convicted as an adult, he will serve his time in the juvenile system under the custody of the Department of Health and Human Services until he turns 18. Calhoun Circuit Judge John Hallacy will review his progress every 90 days. Upon reaching adulthood, the court will decide whether Estes will transition into the adult corrections system, reported Law and Crime.
Initially, Estes claimed he was merely a bystander, but investigators uncovered evidence proving otherwise. According to a report from WMMT, Estes had FaceTimed a friend before the crime, revealing plans to steal a car. Chimner’s direct involvement in the murder leaves him facing a significantly longer sentence, reflecting the severity of his actions.
Snyder’s death has left an indelible mark on the Battle Creek community. He was set to graduate from Battle Creek Central High School and had a bright future ahead. His obituary described him as someone whose “true passion” was soccer and who had made a lasting impact on everyone who met him.
The sentencing brings a semblance of justice to Snyder’s grieving family and community, though the loss of a promising young life continues to be deeply felt.
