Lexington Park, Maryland – A horrific act of domestic violence has left the community of Lexington Park in shock after 36-year-old Chaquanda Odom was fatally shot by her ex-husband, Jayson David Pressley, 38. The incident occurred in broad daylight on Liberty Street, in St. Mary’s County, at approximately 11:10 AM on January 3, 2025.

According to police reports, Odom was found lying on the pavement with multiple gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts by first responders, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Shortly after the shooting, Pressley turned himself in to authorities and has since been charged with first- and second-degree murder. He remains in custody without bond as the investigation unfolds.

The Incident: What We Know So Far

Witnesses reported hearing several gunshots just after 11:00 AM on Wednesday morning, followed by the sight of a man walking briskly away from the scene. Several calls to 911 prompted an immediate response from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office.

When deputies arrived on Liberty Street, they found Chaquanda Odom unresponsive, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to the chest and abdomen. Paramedics attempted resuscitation, but Odom was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities quickly identified her ex-husband, Jayson David Pressley, as the prime suspect. Within hours of the shooting, Pressley arrived at the sheriff’s office and surrendered. Police confirmed that he confessed to the crime during initial questioning, though details of his statement have not yet been released.

The weapon used in the shooting, a semi-automatic handgun, has been recovered. Investigators are working to determine whether it was legally owned and whether there were prior indications of escalating violence.

A Troubled History of Domestic Strife

Sources close to the victim and suspect have revealed a troubling history of domestic issues between Odom and Pressley. The couple, who divorced two years ago after nearly a decade of marriage, reportedly had a contentious relationship marked by frequent arguments and allegations of emotional and physical abuse.

Court records show that Odom had filed for a protective order against Pressley in 2023, citing repeated harassment and threats. The protective order was granted but expired in late 2024, and it remains unclear whether any additional legal actions were taken.

Friends of Odom described her as a resilient woman who was trying to rebuild her life after the divorce. She had recently started a new job and was focused on raising her two children, ages 8 and 12, who were not present at the time of the shooting.

“She loved her kids more than anything,” said a close friend, Monique Carter. “She was trying to move on, but Jayson just wouldn’t let her. It’s heartbreaking that it ended like this.”

A Community in Mourning

The death of Chaquanda Odom has left the Lexington Park community grappling with grief and anger. Neighbors and friends gathered for a candlelight vigil on Liberty Street Thursday evening, leaving flowers, balloons, and heartfelt messages in her memory.

“Chaquanda was a beautiful soul, taken from us far too soon,” said Pastor James Turner of a local church who spoke at the vigil. “Her death is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of domestic violence. We must come together as a community to support her family and ensure her story is not forgotten.”

Local organizations that advocate for domestic violence victims have also spoken out, urging anyone in abusive relationships to seek help. “This tragedy highlights the importance of having robust systems in place to protect victims,” said Angela Reynolds, director of a local domestic violence shelter. “We need to do more to prevent these senseless acts of violence.”

Pressley in Custody: Legal Proceedings Begin

Jayson David Pressley has been charged with first- and second-degree murder, as well as other related offenses. He is currently being held at the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center without bond.

During a preliminary hearing on Friday, prosecutors outlined the severity of the charges, emphasizing the premeditated nature of the crime. “This was not a crime of passion,” said Assistant State’s Attorney Mark Landry. “This was a deliberate and calculated act of violence.”

Defense attorneys for Pressley have not yet commented on the case, but legal experts anticipate that his prior history with Odom, including allegations of abuse, will play a significant role in the trial.

The trial is expected to draw significant attention, with community members calling for justice for Odom and her family.

Impact on Odom’s Children

Perhaps the most heartbreaking aspect of this tragedy is its impact on Odom’s two young children, who are now left without their mother. The children are currently staying with relatives, who have expressed their devastation over the loss.

“She was their world,” said Odom’s sister, Tasha Evans. “Now they have to grow up without her. It’s not fair. She didn’t deserve this, and neither do her kids.”

Family members have set up a GoFundMe page to support the children’s future needs, including counseling services and educational expenses. The campaign has already raised over $15,000, with donations pouring in from community members and beyond.

The Broader Issue of Domestic Violence

Odom’s death is the latest in a grim pattern of domestic violence incidents across the country. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), nearly 10 million people experience domestic violence each year in the United States. Women are disproportionately affected, with intimate partner violence accounting for 15% of all violent crime.

Experts emphasize the importance of early intervention and the need for resources to support victims. “We need to break the cycle of abuse,” said Dr. Lisa Patterson, a psychologist who specializes in domestic violence cases. “This requires a combination of education, legal protections, and community support systems.”

Community Action and Advocacy

In the wake of Odom’s death, local leaders and activists are calling for systemic changes to address domestic violence more effectively. Proposals include extending the duration of protective orders, increasing funding for shelters and counseling services, and implementing community-based programs to raise awareness.

“This isn’t just about one case,” said State Delegate Karen Wallace. “It’s about creating a society where no one has to live in fear of their partner. We owe it to Chaquanda and every other victim of domestic violence to do better.”

Remembering Chaquanda Odom

As the investigation and legal proceedings continue, those who knew Chaquanda Odom are focused on honoring her memory. Plans are underway for a public memorial service, where friends, family, and community members can come together to celebrate her life.

“She was an amazing mother, sister, and friend,” said her cousin, Erica Simmons. “We’re going to make sure her legacy lives on. She deserved so much more than this.”

Odom’s death is a painful reminder of the devastating toll of domestic violence, but it has also galvanized a community determined to fight for change. As Lexington Park mourns her loss, it also stands united in its resolve to prevent future tragedies and to ensure that Odom’s story serves as a catalyst for action.

Anyone with information about the case is urged to contact the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office or submit tips anonymously through Crime Solvers at 1-800-222-TIPS.