The Senseless Murder of Steven Gambles: How Jordan Jacobs’ Life Took a Dark Turn
In July 2021, the Gambles family’s world shattered when 32-year-old Steven Gambles was murdered in his car after a night out with a friend. What seemed like an ordinary evening ended in tragedy, leaving a family devastated and a community in shock.
The case, detailed in Investigation Discovery’s See No Evil: The Wrong Look, unfolded through critical CCTV footage that identified the killer, Jordan Jacobs. This article covers Steven’s life, the crime’s chilling details, the investigation’s breakthrough, and where Jordan Jacobs is today.
A Promising Life Cut Short: Who Was Steven Gambles?
Steven Christopher Gambles Jr. was born on January 31, 1989, in Denton, Texas. Raised by community activist Phyllis Gant and educator and minister Steven Gambles Sr., Steven grew up in a loving home with his younger brother, Marcus.
Encouraged to follow his passions, Steven became an entrepreneur, crafting high-quality leather bags and promoting them through photography and design. At 32, he lived in Plano, Texas, building a life with his fiancée, Brittney Curlin. On the evening of July 8, 2021, he enjoyed dinner with a friend at Benihana—an evening that would sadly be his last.
The Crime: How Steven Was Murdered In His Car
After dinner, Steven walked his friend to her car and returned to his white Mercedes. As he settled into the driver’s seat, a man wearing a neon security jacket approached. CCTV footage later showed Steven lowering his window.
Without warning, the man pulled a gun and shot Steven execution-style in the head. Emergency responders arrived too late. News of Steven’s death left his family heartbroken. With no apparent enemies and no ties to criminal activity, police were left searching for answers in what appeared to be a senseless murder.
CCTV Reveals A Premeditated Attack
Investigators collected surveillance footage from surrounding stores, as Steven’s car was parked in clear view of the street. The footage showed a man lurking near the vehicle for two hours before the shooting. At one point, he entered the unlocked car and stole a gun from the glove compartment—ironically, the weapon was later used in the crime.
The man’s deliberate behavior suggested a premeditated attack. Police prioritized tracking his movements, reviewing footage that showed him fleeing the scene and entering a nearby apartment building a short distance away.
Identifying The Killer: Jordan Jacobs’ Motive
Although the suspect’s face was initially covered, further CCTV footage captured him walking with a woman, providing investigators with a clearer view. The man was identified as Jordan Christopher Jacobs, a 24-year-old.
Additional footage revealed that earlier in the night, Jordan had passed Steven outside a Mini-Mart and believed Steven had looked at his girlfriend “the wrong way.” Enraged, Jordan decided to rob Steven as “punishment.” After changing into a disguise, he stalked Steven’s car and waited for an opportunity. Tragically, when Steven didn’t comply, Jordan pulled the trigger instead.
Confession And Arrest: How The Case Was Solved
Just 14 hours after the murder, police arrested Jordan Jacobs at his home. Initially, Jordan denied involvement, claiming mistaken identity. But after persistent questioning and the weight of the video evidence, he confessed.
He admitted that he had planned only to rob Steven, but shot him when he feared resistance. Jordan’s girlfriend also confirmed his actions, providing additional details that helped prosecutors build a strong case. The swift identification and arrest brought some relief to Steven’s grieving family, though the pain of their loss remained immense.
Trial And Sentence: Justice For Steven Gambles
Jordan Jacobs’ trial began in October 2022. Prosecutors presented extensive CCTV footage, testimony from Jordan’s girlfriend, and forensic evidence. The jury convicted him of capital murder. He was sentenced to life in prison without parole.
Currently 27, Jordan is incarcerated at the John T. Montford Unit in Lubbock, Texas. His appeal was denied, meaning he will remain behind bars for the rest of his life. The conviction provided some closure to Steven’s family, though they continue to mourn the promising life so cruelly taken from them.
A Senseless Crime That Shook A Community
Steven Gambles’ murder was a senseless act born from misplaced anger and impulsive violence. He was a beloved son, brother, and entrepreneur with a bright future. The case highlights how quickly lives can be shattered by random acts of violence.
It also highlights the significant role of surveillance technology in modern investigations. While justice was served, the Gambles family’s loss remains immeasurable. As they continue to honor Steven’s memory, the community reflects on the fragility of life and the need for greater compassion in a world often torn apart by division.
Final Words
The tragic murder of Steven Gambles serves as a heartbreaking reminder of how senseless violence can destroy lives in an instant. Thanks to diligent police work and critical CCTV footage, the killer, Jordan Jacobs, was swiftly brought to justice.
Steven’s story continues to resonate, inspiring calls for peace, empathy, and accountability. As his loved ones remember a kind and talented young man, his legacy lives on, reminding us all to cherish life and stand against violence in all forms.
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