Heidelberg, Mississippi — Community Shattered After Fatal Homecoming Game Shooting Leaves Three Dead, Four Charged

Heidelberg, Mississippi — Community Shattered After Fatal Homecoming Game Shooting Leaves Three Dead, Four Charged

Heidelberg, MS — What should have been a joyful evening celebrating school pride and unity turned into a nightmare for the town of Heidelberg, Mississippi, as gunfire erupted during Heidelberg High School’s homecoming game on October 10, 2025, leaving three young lives tragically lost and an entire community shaken to its core.

The victims — Christopher Newell, Mikea McCray, and Cayus Stevens — have been identified by local authorities, each leaving behind grieving families, friends, and classmates who are struggling to process the horror and senselessness of the tragedy.

The Jasper County Sheriff’s Department has confirmed that four individuals have been charged in connection with the incident:

• Tylar Goodloe, 18 — Charged

• Jabari Collins, 19 — Charged

• Jadarius Page, 19 — Charged

• Damarin Starks, 19 — Charged with accessory after the fact and tampering with physical evidence

The charges are part of an ongoing and active investigation that continues to unravel the events of that devastating night.

A Night of Celebration Turns to Chaos

Hundreds of students, families, and alumni had gathered on October 10 at the Heidelberg High School football field for one of the most anticipated nights of the year — the annual homecoming game, a tradition that brings together generations of residents to celebrate youth, school spirit, and community pride.

But that evening of celebration turned into a scene of chaos and terror when gunfire erupted in or near the stadium grounds. Witnesses described the sound of multiple shots, people screaming and running for cover, and the confusion that followed.

Emergency responders rushed to the scene and provided medical assistance, but tragically, three individuals were pronounced dead due to gunshot wounds. Several others sustained injuries, though their conditions have not been publicly released.

Remembering the Victims

Christopher Newell

Described by friends as full of heart and promise, Christopher was a young man with big dreams and a quiet strength. He was respected by his peers for his leadership and loyalty. His presence was steady and kind, and he leaves behind a devastated family that had envisioned a bright future for him.

Mikea McCray

Known for her vibrant spirit and compassionate nature, Mikea lit up every room she walked into. She had aspirations of becoming a nurse, and she was always the first to check in on others. Her kindness, humor, and generosity made her a beloved friend, student, and daughter.

Cayus Stevens

A passionate athlete and deeply loyal friend, Cayus was a familiar face on the field and in the hallways of Heidelberg High. He dreamed of one day playing college ball and was known for his determination and humility. His death has left his teammates and coaches in shock and sorrow.

Arrests and Charges

Following swift action by law enforcement, four suspects were arrested in connection with the shooting:

• Tylar Goodloe, 18

• Jabari Collins, 19

• Jadarius Page, 19

Each faces felony charges directly related to the shooting. In addition:

• Damarin Starks, 19, has been charged with accessory after the fact and tampering with physical evidence.

The exact motives remain under investigation, and authorities are continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses. Officials have praised the public for tips and assistance in rapidly identifying the suspects.

The Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, with support from state and federal law enforcement, has vowed to pursue justice for the victims and to hold all responsible parties accountable.

A Community in Mourning

In the days since the shooting, the town of Heidelberg has been awash in grief and disbelief. Local churches have opened their doors for prayer services and grief counseling. Heidelberg High School has canceled all remaining homecoming activities and shifted its focus to providing emotional support for students and staff.

Superintendent and school officials have expressed deep sorrow and reiterated their commitment to school safety, promising to work alongside law enforcement to ensure nothing like this ever happens again.

“This is not just a school tragedy. It’s a community tragedy,” said one local pastor during a candlelight vigil. “We have lost three of our children. We are broken, but we will not let their lives be lost in vain.”

Moving Forward: Demands for Change

The tragedy has reignited urgent conversations about youth violence, gun access, and community safety — not just in Heidelberg, but across small towns throughout Mississippi and the South.

Parents and civic leaders are calling for increased school security, youth intervention programs, mental health support, and stronger community-police collaboration.

“We can’t allow our young people to become statistics,” said a Heidelberg city council member. “We have to invest in them before it’s too late.”

Funeral and Memorial Arrangements

Memorial services for Christopher Newell, Mikea McCray, and Cayus Stevens will be held in the coming days. Families are inviting the public to join in remembering and honoring the lives of these three beautiful souls. Funeral dates and locations will be announced as arrangements are finalized.

Donations and support efforts are underway to assist the families with funeral costs and ongoing grief support.

Rest in Power

The names Christopher Newell, Mikea McCray, and Cayus Stevens will not be forgotten. Their dreams, their joy, their potential — all stolen in a moment of violence that never should have happened.

As the community of Heidelberg mourns, it also rises — united in grief, in love, and in a shared determination to honor their memory through change, healing, and justice.