Salisbury 19-Year-Old Convicted of Fatally Shooting Man in the Face after Dispute

SALISBURY, Md. – A 19-year-old has been convicted of second-degree murder after he shot and killed a man over an offensive comment in Jul. 2025.

On Sept. 16, Jonathan Jobe of Salisbury was convicted of second degree murder, first and second degree assault, and related firearm charges following an eight-day jury trial. He will remain in custody until his sentencing, which has been postponed pending the completion of a pre-sentence investigation.

Wicomico County State’s Attorney (SA) Jamie L. Dykes commended the verdict, as well as the work done by prosecutors, investigators, and witnesses in this case. She added that five body attachments were issued during the trial because witnesses faced threats and intimidation for coming forward.

“This case is a stark reminder that the work does not end when an arrest is made,” SA Dykes said. “Senseless violence demands accountability, and cases this difficult demand persistence. I am deeply grateful to everyone who refused to give up on this case.”

According to evidence presented in court, on Jul. 15, 2025, Jobe murdered then 24-year-old Dajaud Rae’heim Townsend behind 614 Smith Street in Salisbury. After Townsend made a comment that offended Jobe, Jobe placed a firearm against his head and demanded that the two fight. When Townsend told Jobe he did not want to fight, Jobe responded by shooting the victim once in the face, killing him.

Officers with the Salisbury Police Department immediately responded and rendered aid to the victim. After emergency medical services arrived, officers quickly transitioned to securing the scene,
identifying witnesses, and preserving evidence. Through the combined efforts of local police and the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit, investigators obtained critical surveillance footage identifying Jobe as the shooter. He was subsequently arrested within four hours of the murder.