Atlanta Mother Celebrates Arrest in Son’s Six-Year Cold Case
ATLANTA — For a mother carrying the burden of loss, any hint of closure can feel like a breath of fresh air. This is the reality for Yana Harmon, who after six long years of relentless pursuit, is finally experiencing a measure of relief with the arrest of the alleged shooter of her 18-year-old son, Jaylen Harmon.
“For six long years, I felt like I couldn’t breathe,” Yana shared while standing near the hauntingly familiar Greenbriar Apartments on Stone Road, the very place where Jaylen’s body was discovered. “Now, I can finally breathe a little bit.”
A Mother’s Relentless Pursuit for Justice
In the quest for justice, Yana proved to be an inexhaustible force. She became an unofficial detective, knocking on doors, gathering tips, and keeping the memory of her son alive through sheer perseverance. “I was not only knocking on doors but asking and manifesting, hoping someone would come forward and reveal the truth,” she explained.
That persistence paid off when an anonymous person called her, identifying the person who allegedly shot Jaylen. This courageous act of speaking out was the breakthrough Yana had patiently awaited. “They wanted this monster off the street,” Yana highlighted, her voice a mix of relief and determination.
The Arrest and Its Impact
With the arrest of Jorey Roberts, who is now charged with murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during a felony, Yana felt a significant moment of justice. She attended court proceedings where Roberts was present but noted, “He couldn’t even look at me.”
Roberts requested bond, citing the need to care for his two children, a plea that struck Yana deeply. “My kid is gone. I want to take care of my kid too. I can’t wake him up,” she argued, firmly standing her ground in the belief that Roberts should remain in custody.
A Community Movement
This story underscores the power of community support and not giving up in the face of adversity. “So many people give up,” Yana reflected, proud of the milestone reached in her son’s case. Her journey serves as an inspiration for others who might be in similar situations, showing the incredible impact determination and community involvement can have in solving cold cases.
Atlanta’s streets, once feeling colder without Jaylen, now echo with hopes of healing and justice. Yana continues to pray that Roberts remains behind bars, ensuring her son’s legacy is one of enduring strength and resilience.
As this chapter in Yana’s life sees a closing, the community rallies around her, and many are reminded of the power we hold in seeking justice, together.
