UPDATE: On Monday, June 2, 2025, Cecil Tamez Jr. was located in the 300 block of Cartwright Drive in Killeen and taken into custody. Tamez was found hiding under a mobile home and had attempted to conceal himself by burying himself in dirt. He was arrested and transported to the Killeen City Jail.
Original Post:
The Killeen Police Department is actively investigating the death of 28-year-old Ondarien Jamall Kelly following a stabbing incident on Wednesday, May 21. An arrest warrant has been issued for 35-year-old Cecil Tamez Jr., charging him with Murder in connection with the case.
At approximately 5:24 p.m. on Wednesday, officers were dispatched to the 1700 block of Sunset Street in reference to a stabbing victim. Upon arrival, officers found Kelly suffering from a stab wound. Killeen Fire Department EMS responded and initiated life-saving measures. Kelly was airlifted to Baylor Scott & White in critical condition, where he later succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at 6:58 p.m. by Justice of the Peace Ted Duffield, who ordered an autopsy.
The preliminary investigation indicates that Kelly and Tamez Jr., who are acquaintances, were involved in a verbal altercation. During the dispute, the suspect allegedly grabbed a kitchen knife and stabbed the victim before fleeing the scene. Authorities have stated this is an isolated incident.
On May 22, 2025, the case was presented to the Bell County District Attorney’s Office, which returned a complaint charging Cecil Tamez Jr. with Murder. Justice of the Peace Nicola James subsequently issued a warrant for his arrest.
