Boynton Beach police have raised the reward for information leading to an arrest in the killing of 16-year-old Charles “CJ” Morris Jr. to $9,500. Morris was found shot inside a vacant home in The Preserve community in June 2025 and died days later. No arrests have been announced, and detectives say they believe the case started as a robbery. His family describes him as a bright, joyful teen whose life “was just starting.”
Police hope extra cash shakes loose new tips
The reward increase, up from the $3,000 offered last fall, was announced on July 9, 2026, according to WPBF. Boynton Beach detectives urged anyone with information to speak up. Detective Sean Steele told the station he hopes the higher reward will help get justice for Morris, the outlet reported.
What investigators say happened
Officers were flagged down by Morris’s father on June 4, and they later found the teen inside a vacant house in the 1700 block of Northeast Sixth Street in The Preserve, according to WPTV. Morris was taken to Delray Medical Center and pronounced dead two days later. Investigators have said they believe he may have been robbed before the shooting.
Family remembers 'CJ'
Relatives told WPTV that Morris loved motocross and sports. His uncle Otis Evans said, “He was just a kid who loved people.” The family has created a GoFundMe to help with funeral expenses and continues to plead for anyone who knows something to come forward.
How to share tips with investigators
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County at 1-800-458-TIPS or Boynton Beach Detective Alfredo Vargas at 561-742-6163, according to WPBF. Tips can be submitted anonymously and may be eligible for the reward if they lead to an arrest.
