Leon Jones pushing summer safety with ‘Stop the Killing’ campaign

Macon-Bibb County coroner says the effort aims to reduce violence and raise awareness about safety risks

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Macon-Bibb County Coroner Leon Jones says his “Stop the Killing” campaign began in 2019 after he noticed a high number of death investigations in the community.

“I believe as a leader and an elected official, I think it’s part of my job,” he said. “My predecessor, the late Ed Bond, told us we should focus on death prevention as well as pronouncing people dead.”

Since then, Jones has taken that message directly to the public through weekly events every Sunday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Bentley and Sons Funeral Home on Montpelier Avenue.

He says the effort focuses on preventing violence while also raising awareness about other risks like drowning and car seat safety.

Jones also urges parents to stay aware of their children’s surroundings.

“It’s nothing wrong with having fun,” he said. “Life is short. I work with dead people, okay? Life is short. But know where your children are, know who they are associated with, and watch their social media accounts.”

He also shared a message for young people this summer.

“Have a safe summer and enjoy your time out, but I want to see everybody go back to school,” he said. “I don’t want to see nobody go in a body bag. Let’s be honest, let’s just cut to the chase. I don’t want to see not one person in a body bag.”

Jones recently shared a video on social media that shows him inside a casket.

“Hi, I’m Leon Jones, your coroner,” he said. “Do not end up in one of these. Do not put someone in one of these. Just walk away. And remember: God loves you, and so do I.”