In a concerning turn of events, Barbara Evans has sought emergency custody of her grandson, Jace, amidst reports of troubling behaviour and mental health challenges. This decision follows a frightening incident earlier this month where Barbara allegedly called emergency services stating that Jace threatened her while holding a gun to himself.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Barbara-Evans-Jennelle-Evans-MTV-Video-Music-Awards-101425-tout-befda89082b240369fc9115e49438f41.jpg)

In a recording obtained by PEOPLE, Barbara can be heard in distress as she pleads for immediate assistance. She describes the chaotic situation in her home, expressing fears for both her safety and the state of her property. “My grandson is on probation. He is destroying my house,” she states during the call. Barbara elaborated on Jace’s behaviour, saying he was “screaming” and trying to harm her, which inevitably raised alarm for the authorities.

Court records reveal that Barbara filed for emergency child custody as well as a modification of existing custody arrangements on 11 March. She followed these documents with an ex parte order on 12 March, which is a temporary emergency directive initiated by one party without prior notification to the other involved party. Barbara’s action came in the wake of reports confirming that Jace has since been placed in a mental health facility for his safety and evaluation.
Representatives for Jace’s mother, Jenelle Evans, have confirmed that they are actively seeking a suitable mental health facility that can cater to Jace’s specific needs. Jenelle’s spokesperson accurately portrayed the gravity of the situation by confirming that Barbara indeed called the police after an alarming confrontation with Jace. The situation escalated further when Jace threatened to take drastic actions against himself and his grandmother.
According to reports, local law enforcement were dispatched to Barbara’s residence on 22 February following the 911 call. A police report from the Boiling Springs Lakes Police Department outlines that officers responded to a disturbance involving a firearm, which naturally intensified the urgency surrounding this case.
Previously, in a summer update, Jenelle had shared with PEOPLE that Jace was living harmoniously with her and his siblings in North Carolina, following a period spent with his father, Lewis. At that time, she expressed her relief that Jace seemed content and engaged in activities like skateboarding, indicating a promising shift in his life.
However, complications seemed to arise by August when Jace inadvertently leaked text messages exchanged with Jenelle that hinted at disciplinary actions taken by her. This incident sparked conversations about the dynamics of their relationship, which have been scrutinised by fans and observers alike.
The latest developments surrounding Jace raise significant concerns regarding adolescent mental health and the complexities families face when dealing with such challenges. Authorities and family members alike are now tasked with ensuring that Jace receives the appropriate treatment and care he requires in the wake of these distressing events.
As the situation unfolds, it reflects broader issues regarding mental health awareness, the stigma associated with seeking help, and the steps necessary to safeguard young individuals facing critical challenges. The Evans family’s story, while unique, resonates with many as they navigate the tumultuous waters of mental health and familial responsibility in the modern world.
Only time will tell how this situation progresses and what the future holds for Jace and his family. Meanwhile, support mechanisms and open conversations about mental health remain imperative as families grapple with similar issues in their own lives.
