Man convicted after shooting woman 20 times with eight kids nearby

Washington, D.C., man has been convicted of first-degree murder after prosecutors said he violated a protective order and fatally shot the mother of his children more than 20 times while eight children were inside the home.

Protective order violated before fatal shooting

Wonell Jones Jr., 38, was found guilty on July 16 in the killing of 33-year-old Audora Williams, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Williams had obtained a temporary protective order against Jones, barring him from contacting her, as per People. A hearing on the order had been scheduled for days after the July 19, 2022, shooting.

Prosecutors said Jones went to Williams' apartment after one of her sons accompanied him to a grocery store. The pair argued in a bedroom, where Jones allegedly accused Williams of cheating before opening fire.

Authorities said Williams was shot more than 20 times using two different firearms.

Eight children inside home during shooting

Eight children were inside the apartment during the shooting, including two children shared by Jones and Williams.

According to court testimony cited by D.C. Witness, Jones' teenage son heard the argument escalate before hearing gunshots. He testified that Jones briefly looked out of the bedroom before returning and continuing to fire.

Prosecutors said Jones fled to Florida after the shooting and was arrested about a month later before being extradited to Washington, D.C.

Jones was also convicted of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence and two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 30.