By James Williams

On the morning of June 17, 2022, the body of Donte Perez Jones, a 35-year-old Black U.S. Army veteran and father of three, was found hanging from the monkey bars at Wentz Run Park in Whitpain Township, just outside of Ambler and Blue Bell, Pennsylvania.

Police quickly ruled the death a suicide. But from the moment Donte’s family received the news, they’ve been fighting for a deeper investigation—because too many things don’t add up.

Jones had recently completed a commercial driver’s license (CDL) training program and was preparing to take his final exam. He had made summer plans with his children and was excited about launching a new career in trucking. According to his mother, LaTina Bedford-Dean, Donte once told her, “If anyone ever tells you I committed suicide, don’t believe them.”

Jones was found nearly an hour from his home in Sharon Hill, in an area where he had no known ties. His body was discovered in the early morning, but his family says they were denied access to the scene and not allowed to identify the body for more than 48 hours.

They also cite troubling details. Donte’s feet were reportedly touching the ground—an anomaly for a hanging. His wallet and personal belongings were missing. His body had visible bruises and blunt-force injuries. Despite this, the park was reopened within hours, and the coroner initially refused to conduct an autopsy, only agreeing after public pressure.

As of this printing, no one has been charged, and no public findings have resolved the family’s concerns. Whitpain Township Police say the investigation remains “open,” but no further details have been released. The autopsy report and toxicology findings have not been made public. The family is now seeking an independent autopsy and legal support through community fundraising.

A grassroots podcast titled “Crooked Whitpain” has independently investigated the case and released multiple episodes suggesting the possibility of a cover-up.

“Donte served his country. He was a father, a son, and a friend,” said Bedford-Dean. “He deserved dignity in life—and justice in death.”

The family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to support their legal efforts and continues to demand answers from Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele.

Supporters can follow the case on social media using #JusticeForDonte. The Crooked Whitpain podcast is available on Spotify. Donations to help fund legal and investigative efforts can be made via GoFundMe.com/JusticeForDonte. Community members are also encouraged to contact the Montgomery County DA’s Office to demand transparency.

Justice delayed is justice denied. But justice ignored is injustice reborn.