Mistrial in case of ex-University of Miami football player Rashaun Jones, accused of killing teammate in 2006
Mistrial in Rashaun Jones’ Case as 15-Year-Old Murder of Teammate Remains Unresolved
Monday marked the declaration of a mistrial in the case of Rashaun Jones, a former University of Miami football player accused of fatally shooting his teammate Bryan Pata in 2006. The murder, which had remained unsolved for a decade and a half, left the storied football program in turmoil. After weeks of deliberation, the Miami-Dade County jury could not reach a consensus, leading to the decision to restart the trial.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I have received your note indicating that you continue to be a deadlock,” said Miami-Dade Circuit Court Judge Cristina Miranda. “And so at this time, I will declare a mistrial and a hung jury.”
Pata’s mother was seen wiping tears as the verdict was announced, her hands covering her face in visible distress. Edwin Pata, the victim’s brother, expressed frustration outside the courthouse. “It’s disappointing,” he said. “It’s frustrating really, for all of us, of course, especially my mom, for every single sibling and every person that came out and supported us.”
Prosecutors indicated they plan to retry the case, with Judge Miranda instructing legal teams to prepare for a new trial date. The jury’s final vote tally—whether it leaned toward guilt or innocence—was not revealed in court. “Mr. Jones continues to be presumed innocent,” defense attorney Sara Alvarez stated. “And we will be back to fight this again at the next trial.”
As the trial ended, Miranda commended the jurors for their efforts. “I know it’s been a long couple of weeks,” she said. “I know you all put your heart and soul into it, and you were here for very long hours listening to all of the evidence. So we appreciate your work now.”
Bryan Pata, 22 at the time, was a rising star in the Miami Hurricanes defense, seen as a future NFL prospect. Rashaun Jones, a seldom-used wide receiver and occasional punt returner, was arrested in August 2021—just three months before the 15th anniversary of the crime. The case had lingered over the university for years, sparking speculation in South Florida.
Jones’ defense argued the state’s case lacked sufficient evidence to prove his guilt. They claimed prosecutors had succumbed to public pressure, leading to his arrest. While there was no direct physical proof linking Jones to the shooting, a witness testified he was seen leaving the scene. Additionally, Jones’ cellphone was detected near Pata’s apartment building just before the incident, according to officials.
Jones had previously rejected a plea deal offering a 15-year sentence. Edrick Pata, another brother of the victim, reflected on the emotional toll of the trial. “It’s just like looking at my nephews and nieces, and they were babies at the time,” he said. “The hope is … to remain optimistic.”
