A long-stalled McAlester homicide case is suddenly moving again after a 29-year-old man walked into the police station and allegedly admitted to killing local taxi driver Dustin Parker.
Authorities say Deraje Nathanial Jackson surrendered to McAlester police on March 20 and was booked on a complaint of first-degree murder in connection with Parker's 2020 slaying, as reported by NonDoc. Pittsburg County District Attorney Chuck Sullivan told investigators that Jackson "confessed to killing Dustin Parker" and that an arraignment was set for later on March 23, according to the report. McAlester Police Lt. Kirk Johnston confirmed Jackson was arrested and booked into the Pittsburg County jail.
Parker, 25, was found shot inside his taxi on New Year's Day 2020 and was a founding member of the McAlester chapter of Oklahomans for Equality, according to reporting by The Associated Press. In the months after the killing, friends held vigils and benefit events, and the community worked to keep tips coming in to investigators. Parker is survived by his wife, Regina, and their four children.
Prosecutors Say State Can Take Jurisdiction
District Attorney Sullivan told investigators the state can assume criminal jurisdiction in the case because Jackson is not a member of a Native American tribe, and that his office intends to prosecute the case to the fullest extent, NonDoc reports. Regina Parker said federal investigators had stepped back from the probe over jurisdictional issues, and family members and community leaders put up a reward for information over the years. Authorities say those early jurisdictional questions complicated the initial phase of the investigation.
What Happens Next
Jackson remains jailed in Pittsburg County on a state complaint of first-degree murder as prosecutors draft formal charging documents and the case begins moving toward court. Under Oklahoma law, a conviction for first-degree murder can carry a sentence of life imprisonment or death, depending on aggravating factors and the sentence imposed, according to the Oklahoma statutes. Prosecutors will decide whether to pursue any additional charges or sentence enhancements as they prepare for trial.
Family And Community Response
In 2020, shortly after Parker's death, McAlester residents organized fundraisers and a candlelight vigil that helped raise reward money for information, as reported by News On 6. Family members say Jackson's arrest has brought renewed hope for answers and some measure of closure after six years of waiting.
Investigators are still urging anyone with additional information to contact the McAlester Police Department or the Pittsburg County District Attorney's office.
