Tragedy hits Pleasanton with first homicide case since 2012
April 24, 2020
On Wednesday, April 15, a 19-year-old Amador alumni Jackson Reese Butler was reportedly murdered in the parking lot of the Hyatt House Pleasanton Hotel. Officers arrived at the scene at around 8:21 and found him suffering from stab wounds as a result of a fight that involved two others who fled the scene.
Butler unfortunately succumbed to his wounds at Eden Medical Center in Castro Valley. The following Friday morning, Police identified the victim and gave details about suspects of the murder.
“One was a black male, 16 to 20 years old, standing 5-foot-6 with a skinny build wearing a gray beanie and black sweatpants. The second suspect was also an African-American male, 16 to 20 years old, standing 5-foot-8 with a medium build, round face and black hooded sweatshirt,” said one officer involved.
The suspects were soon identified and arrested a week later on On Wednesday, April 22. The suspects’ are ages 17 and 19. The 17-year-old suspect’s name was not released and is being held at Alameda County Juvenile Hall. Both are currently awaiting trial in mid-June.
“An altercation ensued and Butler was stabbed several times. Detectives are investigating the possibility of drug sales activity, but this motive has not yet been confirmed.” said Lt. Erik Silacci.
The 19-year-old suspect was identified as Amador alumni Isaiah Joeseph Howard and he is being held at Santa Rita Jail with a $40,000. If convicted for their charges, this will sadly be the first homicide in Pleasanton since 2012.
Before his passing, Jackson Butler was an international judo competitor and a former Amador Valley High School Student, where he was a varsity wrestler, well liked, and will be deeply missed.
“Class of 19’, I knew him a bit, he was pretty chill,” said Shaunak Mitra (’20).
Some who knew Jackson have given positive testaments to his character.
“Jackson was, at heart, a good man, and he would always bring smiles to his friends faces. And now, in our hearts and memories, he will remain that way forever,” Mehmet Aktas (’20).
This is still an ongoing case, as the suspect’s trial is set for mid-June. Anyone with information regarding the case in general can contact Pleasanton police Det. Tony Repetto at 925-931-5288 or [email protected].
May Jackson rest in peace.
Ivan • Jun 4, 2020 at 8:56 am
@Sarah no shiz, but to get robbed, kidnapped and murdered over a +21 legal substance. Society is not helping.
“One was a black male, 16 to 20 years old, standing 5-foot-6 with a skinny build wearing a gray beanie and black sweatpants. The second suspect was also an African-American male, 16 to 20 years old, standing 5-foot-8 with a medium build, round face and black hooded sweatshirt,” said one officer involved.
The 19-year-old suspect was identified as Amador alumni Isaiah Joeseph Howard.
Howard is walking the streets, maybe you will see him at Safeway or the post office.
Sarah • May 23, 2020 at 9:29 am
Don’t do or sell drugs….
rachael • Apr 25, 2020 at 7:23 am
Hello,
you seem to contradict yourself in this article saying “drugs are most definitely involved” but the police said they are still investigating, and motive is not yet confirmed…. hmmm…..
also , narcotics?? I would have not used that quote until the police confirm with a statement. did you do research and see that the suspect Isaiah Howard was also an Amador student. the motive was robbery. please get your story straight. thank you
Soumya Sahay • Apr 25, 2020 at 4:43 pm
Thank you for your response. We sincerely apologize for any misinformation, and have made the appropriate edits. We wish the best for all parties involved, and appreciate your feedback. Our only hope is to keep the community informed.
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