The body of a 17-year-old Montgomery County high school student was found in a wooded area in Germantown, Maryland, on Monday, police said.
Jailyn Jones was found killed in the 18900 block of Grotto Lane about 3 p.m., Montgomery County police said.
"Jailyn was like the life of our house. He always kept us laughing," his mother, Alexis McDaniel, said. "I’m hurt. We hurt. My family is hurt."
Police said the teen's death is a homicide and an autopsy would determine the manner and cause of death.
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Montgomery County Police Chief Marcus Jones told News4 Wednesday that police are treating the wooded area where Jones' body was discovered as the scene of the crime, but they need to gather more evidence before confirming that's where the killing took place.
McDaniel said she believes her only son was bullied at school. News4 is waiting to hear back from Montgomery County Public Schools about those allegations.
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"I mean, I just think there's a [stigma] surrounding him," McDaniel said.
"We are working with MCPS and communicating with the school, Northwest High School, which he attended, to talk to several witnesses and staff members," Chief Jones said.
The principal of Northwest High School sent a letter home to parents describing Jailyn as having a large personality, an infectious smile and overall amazing spirit.
"We don't know what he did to deserve that type of treatment," McDaniel said about her son's killing. "Whoever did this, you have broken my heart."
Investigators are asking anyone with information to call 240-773-5070 or 240-773-TIPS, or contact Crime Solvers of Montgomery County toll-free at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477).
Stay with News4 for updates to this developing story.
