10 Photos of Jenelle Evans: 'Teen Mom' Star Allegedly Placed Son in Mental Health Facility Following Gun Incident

Jenelle Evans, best known for MTV's Teen Mom franchise, is back in the spotlight after reports that her eldest son, Jace Evans, was admitted to a mental health facility following a serious incident with his grandmother, Barbara Evans. The episode, which allegedly included a firearm, has reignited public scrutiny of the family's turbulent history.

The reality star's life has been marked by controversy, custody battles, and viral television moments. Now, with Jace receiving treatment, attention has turned once more to the challenges facing Evans and her family.

Who is Jenelle Evans?

Evans first rose to fame in 2010 after appearing on MTV's 16 and Pregnant, where her intense family conflicts and struggles with young motherhood immediately captured public attention. She later became a central figure on Teen Mom 2, largely due to her volatile relationship with her mother, Barbara, and their long-standing legal battle over custody of her son Jace. After years of dispute, Evans regained custody of her son in 2023.

Today, Evans is a mother of three: Jace, 16; Kaiser, 11, whom she shares with ex Nathan Griffith and who lives with her in Las Vegas; and Ensley, 9, her daughter with David Eason. She has described her current relationship with Eason as 'healthy co-parenting'.

Fame, Controversy and MTV Exit

Evans' popularity was further fuelled by a series of high-profile arrests and 'viral' reality TV moments, including her decision to attend a Ke$ha concert rather than meet her legal obligations.

Despite frequent controversy and her eventual firing from MTV, she maintained a massive following by documenting her turbulent personal life and various relationships on social media.

Jace Evans Placed in Mental Health Facility

According to TMZ, Jace was admitted to a mental health facility after allegedly pulling a gun on his grandmother, Barbara, in February 2026. The report indicates that the teenager allegedly threatened to kill himself and his grandmother during the incident.

On 22 February, seven officers were reportedly dispatched to Barbara's home in North Carolina. Authorities described the home response as a 'troubled teen disturbance.'

Jace is now receiving professional treatment, but it's unclear how long he will be in the facility. The family is focused right now on health and stability.

TMZ also reported concerns about the teenager's possible substance use. Jace allegedly had been drinking and using drugs in the lead-up to the incident.

Family Tensions and Jace's Move in 2025

In August 2025, reports show that Jace moved out of Evans' Las Vegas home to live with Barbara in North Carolina. Before relocating, he publicly accused his mother of 'being' unstable' and leaked private text messages. One of the texts read: 'You're the one saying you're going to have my custody taken.' Another message read: 'I don't care about Kaiser and ensley I care about my health and my living situation i don't need you you don't need me and I don't understand why ur doing this just because I'm telling the truth ur crazy'.

Evans responded on Instagram, stating that her eldest son had 'been in trouble with the law these past few months' and 'posting our private texts was his reaction to being rightfully disciplined.'

What is Jenelle Doing Now?

Evans has shifted her focus to social media content creation on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where she shares updates, vlogs, and interacts with followers. She also maintains a subscription-based account on OnlyFans, where she shares exclusive content. Most recently, she launched her podcast, MILF Mindset.

In the past, she explored different business ventures in cosmetics and fashion, though these are not currently active sources of income.