DEDHAM, Mass. — Community Mourns as 20-Year-Old Jaylani Cole Identified as Victim in Deadly BJ’s Parking Lot Shooting

DEDHAM, Mass. — Community Mourns as 20-Year-Old Jaylani Cole Identified as Victim in Deadly BJ’s Parking Lot Shooting

DEDHAM, Mass. — A quiet Dedham morning was shattered by gunfire early Wednesday, leaving one young man dead and another injured in what authorities are calling a tragic act of violence. The Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office has identified the victim as 20-year-old Jaylani Cole of Brockton, whose life was tragically cut short after suffering multiple gunshot wounds in the parking lot of BJ’s Wholesale Club at 688 Providence Highway.

A Sudden and Violent Attack

According to officials, Dedham Police received several 911 calls around 3:30 a.m. on June 25, 2025, reporting gunshots in the BJ’s parking lot. When first responders arrived on scene, they discovered Jaylani Cole gravely wounded. Despite emergency medical efforts, Cole was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

A second 20-year-old male, whose identity has not yet been released, was also shot during the incident but is expected to survive. Authorities have not provided details on the relationship between the victims or the circumstances leading up to the shooting.

“A Young Life Taken Too Soon”

In a statement to the press, Norfolk District Attorney Michael Morrissey expressed his condolences to Cole’s loved ones and emphasized the gravity of the situation.

“It is always a tragedy when a young life is taken,” Morrissey said. “Our sympathies go out to Jaylani’s family and friends as they begin to cope with this unimaginable loss.”

Friends and family members of Jaylani Cole have already begun to share tributes on social media, describing him as a vibrant young man with a kind heart and dreams for the future. His death has left a community in mourning, as loved ones try to make sense of the senseless violence.

An Active and Ongoing Investigation

Law enforcement agencies—including Dedham Police, Massachusetts State Police, and the Norfolk District Attorney’s Office—are working together on the ongoing investigation. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from surrounding businesses, collecting physical evidence at the scene, and interviewing potential witnesses.

The motive behind the shooting has not been disclosed, and no arrests have been announced at this time.

“This is still an active and ongoing investigation,” Morrissey said. “We urge anyone who may have been in the area at the time or who has any information to come forward.”

Authorities are asking anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Massachusetts State Police tip line at the Norfolk District Attorney’s Office at (781) 830-4990 or reach out to Dedham Police directly.

A Community Calls for Peace

The violence has sparked renewed concerns about youth safety and gun violence in Greater Boston’s surrounding communities. Local advocacy groups are calling for increased support for conflict resolution programs, youth outreach, and anti-violence initiatives aimed at preventing such tragedies.

While BJ’s Wholesale Club has yet to release a statement, the location was temporarily closed Wednesday morning as investigators continued to process the scene.

Remembering Jaylani Cole

As the investigation unfolds, those who knew Jaylani Cole are left with painful memories and the aching question of what could have been. He was only 20—a life filled with possibility, now remembered in photos, conversations, and the heavy silence his absence has left behind.

Community members are expected to organize a vigil in the coming days to honor his life and provide support to his grieving family.

Rest in peace, Jaylani. Your light will not be forgotten.

This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.