In a significant development in the investigation of a shooting incident that occurred in late August, the Berks County District Attorney’s Office announced Tuesday afternoon that the accused, Jayce Donte Lee, was apprehended today at a residence in the 400 block of Douglas Street in Reading, Pennsylvania. The arrest was made by the United States Marshal’s Fugitive Task Force.
The incident took place on Sunday, August 20, 2023, around 12:35 AM, when South Heidelberg Township Police were dispatched to the 100 block of Butternut Court in Sinking Spring, PA, following reports of a shooting. At the scene, officers found two gunshot victims. One victim had suffered a gunshot wound to the abdomen, while the second victim sustained injuries to his finger and right thigh. Both victims were rushed to Tower Health Reading Hospital for immediate medical treatment and are expected to make a full recovery.
The South Heidelberg Township Police Department promptly contacted Berks County District Attorney Detectives to take charge of the investigation. Additionally, the Berks County Forensic Services Unit was called in to process the scene and collect physical evidence.
The investigation revealed that the shooting occurred during a large birthday party being held at the residence on Butternut Court. A male at the party brandished a handgun and opened fire, resulting in injuries to both victims. The incident took place outside the residence in the driveway. After the shooting, the suspect fled the area on foot.
The ongoing investigation successfully identified the alleged shooter as Jayce Donte Lee, a 26-year-old male originally from Delaware County but with ties to Reading, PA. Notably, the firearm used in the shooting had been reported as stolen to the Reading Police Department in April 2023 and was later recovered at the scene by detectives.
Jayce Donte Lee has been charged with several serious offenses, including Aggravated Assault, Simple Assault, Persons not to Possess a Firearm, Firearms not to be Carried Without a License, and Receiving Stolen Property.
Jayce Donte Lee has been transported to the Central Processing Center at the Berks County Courthouse, where he will undergo fingerprinting and photography. A preliminary arraignment is scheduled to take place later this afternoon as the legal process against him unfolds.
A Criminal Complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
