The Manitowoc community is mourning the tragic death of 25-year-old Jaisiah Owens, who was fatally shot early Tuesday morning. His family has since identified him as the victim, remembering him as a hardworking young man and a proud graduate of Lincoln High School’s class of 2018.
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Owens, who had been employed at Manitowoc Tools and Machining, is being remembered by his loved ones for his dedication to family and his steady presence in the community. His mother, Mystalynn Owens, shared that his sudden loss has left the family devastated.
Suspect Appears in Court
On Wednesday, 20-year-old Kirk Dunn appeared in Manitowoc County Court in connection with the fatal shooting. Court Commissioner Luke LeFevre set Dunn’s bond at $500,000, describing the case as a “very tragic and very serious incident.” Dunn was also ordered to have no contact with the victim’s family or witnesses.
According to police records, Dunn has claimed that the shooting occurred in self-defense during a heated altercation. However, Owens’ brothers spoke in court, urging officials to consider a higher bail. “He took away my brother,” one brother said through tears.
Defense attorney Carl Knepel told the court that Dunn maintains his innocence, saying, “We are looking forward to being exonerated.”
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to the deadly encounter. Dunn is scheduled to make his initial appearance on September 29 at the Manitowoc County Courthouse, where prosecutors are expected to outline formal charges.
As the legal process unfolds, the Owens family and community members are left grieving the loss of a young man whose life was cut short too soon. Vigils and tributes are expected in the coming days as friends and loved ones gather to honor his memory.