Guilty Verdict in Double
Murder of Teen and Beloved “Snake Man”
September 17th, 2025
(Jackson, MS) Hinds County District Attorney Jody E. Owens, II, announced today that a jury has found 35-year-old, Jamarrio Bell, guilty on two counts of First-Degree Murder in the shooting deaths of 19-year-old Jarvis Birtfield and 57-year-old Percy “Snake Man” King.
On the evening of January 12, 2018, Jackson Police Department officers responded to reports of a shooting at Percy King’s residence on Scott Street in Jackson. Upon arrival, officers discovered both victims deceased at the scene. Percy King, a beloved reptile expert, was found lying in the front yard of his home, having suffered multiple gunshot wounds. Nearby, young Jarvis Birtfield, was found dead on the street by the curb from a gunshot wound to the head. An off-duty Hinds County deputy, along with a neighbor witnessed the shooting take place at Percy King’s residence. The deputy acted immediately and detained Jamarrio Bell at the scene.
Bell was found guilty on both counts of First-Degree Murder and will spend life in prison under the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections.
“This senseless act of violence devastated two families and shocked our entire community,” said District Attorney Jody E. Owens, II. “Percy King was a mentor and educator whose love for animals and people touched many lives. Jarvis Birtfield was a young man with his entire future ahead of him. Our office remains committed to seeking justice for victims and ensuring that violent offenders are held accountable.”
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Click here for full press release.
JODY E. OWENS, II
