BREAKING: Two Dead, One Injured in Heidelberg High School Homecoming Shooting
October 11, 2025 — Heidelberg, Mississippi
A night meant for celebration and community pride turned into a scene of chaos and tragedy as gunfire rang out during Heidelberg High School’s homecoming game on Friday night, leaving two people dead and one injured. The shooting occurred shortly after the conclusion of the school’s football game against Mize High School, sending hundreds of spectators—students, families, and alumni—into panic and grief.
The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI) has now taken the lead on the case, working closely with the Heidelberg Police Department, the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, and several other state and local law enforcement agencies.
Victims Located in Separate Areas
According to early reports from authorities, one of the victims was discovered near the school’s baseball field, while the other was found close to the home bleachers in the tailgate area—a place where families and students had been gathered just moments earlier to celebrate the end of the homecoming game. The third victim, who survived, was transported to a local hospital. Their current condition remains unknown.
Officials have not yet released the names, ages, or identities of the victims, nor confirmed whether any of them were students, staff, or attendees unaffiliated with the school.
“This is a heartbreaking situation for our town,” said Heidelberg Police Chief Raymond Carter during a brief press statement early Saturday morning. “We ask for patience and cooperation as we work through the facts and pursue the individual or individuals responsible for this senseless violence.”
Shooter Remains at Large
As of Saturday morning, no arrests have been made, and the suspect remains at large. Law enforcement has not confirmed how many shooters may have been involved, what type of weapon was used, or whether the act was targeted or random.
Multiple agencies, including the Mississippi Highway Patrol, MBI Crime Scene Unit, and county deputies, remained on the scene overnight, combing the area for evidence and gathering witness statements. K9 units were also observed searching the perimeter of the school grounds, and the campus remains closed off to the public.
Authorities are urging anyone who attended the game—or anyone with photos, video footage, or information about what occurred—to contact the Heidelberg Police Department at (601) 787-3322.
“Even the smallest detail could help us piece together what happened,” said Jasper County Sheriff Willie White. “We need the community’s help. If you saw something—anything—please come forward.”
Community Devastated
Heidelberg, a tight-knit town of just over 700 residents, is now reeling in the aftermath of what is being described as one of the darkest nights in the town’s recent history.
The homecoming game had drawn a large crowd, including current students, alumni, and family members. Spirits had been high throughout the evening as Heidelberg High School celebrated its football team, homecoming court, and school pride.
“It was supposed to be a beautiful night,” said Karen McGhee, a parent who was at the game with her children. “Kids were smiling, families were dancing, everyone was proud. And then everything just shattered. I still can’t believe it.”
Eyewitnesses described a sudden burst of gunfire shortly after the game ended, followed by chaos as people scrambled for cover. Some took shelter in cars, while others ran toward the nearby fieldhouse or behind the bleachers.
“I heard the first shots and didn’t even realize what was happening,” said senior student Jaden Wilson, who was in the student section when the shots rang out. “Then we saw people running and screaming. We had to duck down. It was terrifying.”
School and District Response
In response to the tragedy, Heidelberg High School has canceled all classes and extracurricular activities for the upcoming week. Grief counselors will be made available for students, faculty, and families beginning Monday at designated community centers.
“We are shocked and devastated by what occurred,” said Superintendent Leon Hayes of the Jasper County School District in an official statement. “Our hearts are broken for the victims and their families. No student, parent, or educator should ever have to experience this kind of violence—especially not in a place meant to be safe.”
The school district is also coordinating with law enforcement to conduct a thorough review of event security and emergency protocols.
State Officials React
Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves was briefed on the situation late Friday night and released a statement early Saturday, expressing condolences to the victims’ families and pledging state support for the ongoing investigation.
“We are deeply saddened by the senseless loss of life in Heidelberg,” the statement read. “Our prayers are with the families of the victims and the entire Heidelberg community. We will do everything in our power to assist local authorities and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.”
A Community Demanding Change
As Heidelberg mourns, residents are also calling for greater attention to school safety, community violence prevention, and the need for mental health resources, particularly in rural areas.
“This is more than a school problem. This is a community problem, a state problem, a national problem,” said Pastor Alton Greene, who is organizing a candlelight vigil for the victims on Sunday. “We cannot keep losing our children, our neighbors, our future—to gun violence.”
Many community members have echoed that sentiment, with some planning a town hall to address concerns about safety at school events and in public spaces.
A Developing Story
As of now, the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation continues to lead the effort to identify the shooter and determine a motive. The investigation is ongoing, and updates will be provided as soon as verified information becomes available.
In the meantime, the town of Heidelberg grieves together—shocked, heartbroken, but united in the face of tragedy.
If you have any information regarding the shooting, please contact the Heidelberg Police Department at (601) 787-3322 or the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation tip line. All tips can remain anonymous.
Candlelight Vigil
A public candlelight vigil for the victims will be held on Sunday at 6:00 PM in front of Heidelberg High School. Community members are invited to attend and bring candles, flowers, or messages of support.
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