Mississippi Communities Reeling After Series of Tragic Homecoming Shootings Leave Six Dead, 10 Injured

Mississippi Communities Reeling After Series of Tragic Homecoming Shootings Leave Six Dead, 10 Injured

GREENVILLE, MS — What was meant to be a weekend of celebration and unity during homecoming festivities has turned into a scene of profound grief and shock across multiple Mississippi communities. Authorities have confirmed that 16 people were shot, with six individuals now dead following a violent outbreak during a series of gatherings in Washington County over the weekend.

The shooting, which erupted late Saturday night and into early Sunday morning, has left local officials, families, and neighbors devastated. The violence unfolded at what authorities described as a large gathering tied to homecoming events in the Greenville area, though the exact motive and circumstances remain under investigation.

Victims Identified as Families Begin to Mourn

The Washington County Coroner, La’Quesha Washington, released the names of the deceased victims on Sunday evening:

Oreshama Johnson, 41
Calvin Plant, 19
Shelbyona Powell, 25
Kaslyn Johnson, 18
Amos Brantley, 18 (died later at the hospital)
JaMichael Jones, 34 (died later at the hospital)

Of the 16 people shot, 10 remain hospitalized, many suffering from gunshot wounds ranging from minor to critical. Family members of several victims say they are still awaiting updates from doctors, anxiously praying for recovery while grappling with the trauma of the attack.

“We’re living in a nightmare,” said Tina Johnson, whose niece Kaslyn was among those killed. “She was only 18 — a sweet, smart girl just starting her life. Now she’s gone because someone decided to bring violence to a celebration.”

Chaos at the Scene

The shooting reportedly occurred during a large outdoor homecoming party held near Highway 82, where hundreds of people had gathered. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as gunfire erupted, sending attendees scrambling for cover and screaming for help.

“It started out as a normal night — music, dancing, people having fun,” said Brandon Keys, who was at the event. “Then all of a sudden, it was gunshots, nonstop. People were falling, running, crying. It was terror.”

First responders and police arrived within minutes, but the scene was already flooded with wounded victims and distraught bystanders. Emergency services from neighboring towns were called in to assist, as ambulances transported victims to multiple hospitals across the region.

Investigation Underway

Law enforcement agencies, including the Washington County Sheriff’s Department, Greenville Police, and the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI), are working collaboratively to determine the source of the violence. As of Monday morning, no arrests have been made, and authorities have not released suspect information.

“We are actively following leads and gathering witness statements,” said Washington County Sheriff Milton Gaston. “We will not rest until those responsible are brought to justice. This community deserves answers — and peace.”

The MBI is also assisting with forensic analysis, reviewing surveillance video, and examining shell casings recovered from the scene. Investigators believe multiple firearms were discharged, suggesting that more than one shooter may have been involved.

Homecoming Traditions Turned Tragic

For many in Mississippi’s Delta region, homecoming weekend is more than just a celebration — it’s a time when extended families reunite, alumni return home, and communities gather in joy and remembrance. This weekend’s events were supposed to be just that.

Instead, the region is left in mourning, with six lives lost and many others forever changed.

“Homecoming is sacred to us,” said Pastor Reginald Moore, who leads a local congregation in Greenville. “Now it’s stained by bloodshed and grief. We’re going to need time, support, and each other to heal from this.”

Community leaders are calling for increased security and gun control measures to prevent future violence, especially at large gatherings.

Local and State Leaders React

Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves released a brief statement Sunday night, expressing condolences to the victims’ families and pledging support for the investigation.

“We are heartbroken by the tragic violence that occurred in Washington County. My prayers are with the victims and their families. We are working closely with law enforcement to ensure justice is served.”

Meanwhile, local officials are grappling with the broader implications of the shooting, especially its impact on young people. Four of the six victims were under the age of 26, and two were teenagers.

“These were our children, our future,” said Greenville Mayor Errick D. Simmons. “We cannot allow violence to keep stealing them from us. We must come together, grieve together, and find solutions together.”

Community Vigils and Calls for Change

Vigils are being organized across Greenville and neighboring towns, with candlelight services, prayer circles, and marches planned throughout the week. Nonprofits, churches, and local schools are also offering grief counseling and support services for those affected.

One vigil is scheduled for Tuesday evening at the Washington County Civic Center, where photos of the victims will be displayed and community members will speak in remembrance.

“We want people to know who they were — not just how they died,” said Cynthia Plant, whose son Calvin, 19, was one of the first victims identified. “They had dreams, families, and futures. And now we’re burying them.”

How the Public Can Help

Authorities are urging anyone with video footage, eyewitness accounts, or information regarding the shooting to contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office or the Mississippi Crime Stoppers tip line at 1-888-8CRIMES. All tips can remain anonymous, and a reward is being offered for information leading to arrests.

Donations for victims’ families are being accepted by the Delta Community Relief Fund, a local nonprofit organizing funeral assistance and trauma counseling resources.

Remembering the Victims

Oreshama Johnson, 41 — A beloved mother of three and caregiver.
Calvin Plant, 19 — A recent high school graduate pursuing welding certification.
Shelbyona Powell, 25 — A young mother and aspiring nurse.
Kaslyn Johnson, 18 — A high school senior with dreams of becoming a teacher.
Amos Brantley, 18 — A football standout known for his leadership on and off the field.
JaMichael Jones, 34 — A dedicated community volunteer and father of two.

As the investigation continues, one truth remains clear: these lives mattered. The communities of Washington County are left to pick up the pieces — mourning the dead, comforting the wounded, and searching for a path forward through heartbreak.