Heidelberg Police Searching for 18-Year-Old Tylar Jarod Goodloe in Connection with High School Shooting
Heidelberg, Mississippi – October 11, 2025
A wave of shock and concern has gripped the small town of Heidelberg, Mississippi, following a violent incident at Heidelberg High School on Friday night. The Heidelberg Police Department, in coordination with the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, has launched an active manhunt for 18-year-old Tylar Jarod Goodloe, who is wanted for questioning in connection with the shooting that left at least one person injured and disrupted what should have been an ordinary evening at a school event.
According to law enforcement officials, the shooting occurred during a school-sponsored event held on campus Friday night, though authorities have not publicly confirmed whether it was a football game, homecoming gathering, or another activity. Gunfire reportedly erupted in the school’s parking lot, sending attendees into a panic and prompting an immediate law enforcement response.
Active Search Underway
As of Saturday evening, Tylar Jarod Goodloe, described as a Black male, 18 years old, with connections to the Heidelberg area, remains at large. Authorities have emphasized that Goodloe is wanted for questioning and have not confirmed whether he is the alleged shooter. However, he is considered a person of interest and law enforcement is urging the public to come forward with any information that may assist in locating him.
“We are asking anyone who may have seen Tylar Goodloe or knows his whereabouts to contact the Heidelberg Police Department or Jasper County Sheriff’s Office immediately,” said Police Chief Raymond Carter. “We consider this an active and ongoing investigation, and we are following every lead.”
Chief Carter also emphasized that members of the public should not approach Goodloe if seen, but instead report sightings to authorities by calling 911 or the anonymous tip line provided.
Victim(s) and Condition Unknown
At this time, authorities have confirmed that at least one individual sustained injuries during the shooting. The victim’s identity, age, and condition have not been released pending family notification and ongoing medical evaluation.
Law enforcement has not disclosed whether the victim was a student, staff member, or visitor, nor whether they were the intended target of the shooting. No fatalities have been reported as of the latest update, though the incident has left many residents rattled and demanding answers.
“We are thankful that more people weren’t hurt,” said Jasper County Sheriff Willie White. “But even one act of gun violence is too many—especially at a school.”
Community in Shock
The incident has left the Heidelberg community, population just over 700, in a state of disbelief. Like many small towns across Mississippi, Heidelberg High School is considered the heart of the community—a place where families gather for sports, school pride runs deep, and everyone knows each other.
For many, the idea of a shooting on school grounds is something they never thought could happen so close to home.
“My daughter was at the school when it happened. She called me screaming, hiding under the bleachers,” said Erica Wallace, a parent who rushed to the scene. “This kind of thing doesn’t happen in Heidelberg—or at least, we thought it didn’t. It’s terrifying.”
The school was placed on immediate lockdown following the incident, and all remaining events for the weekend have been canceled or postponed. Counselors are being made available for students and staff beginning Monday, according to school officials.
Superintendent Leon Hayes of the Jasper County School District released a statement Saturday morning:
“We are devastated by the events that occurred Friday evening at Heidelberg High School. The safety and well-being of our students, staff, and families is our top priority. We are cooperating fully with law enforcement in their investigation and will continue to do everything in our power to support our community through this difficult time.”
Investigation Ongoing
Local, county, and state law enforcement agencies are continuing to gather evidence, review security footage, and interview witnesses in an effort to piece together the events leading up to and following the shooting. Forensic teams were seen canvassing the parking lot and surrounding areas of the school campus on Saturday morning.
Officials have not released a possible motive and have not confirmed whether the shooting was targeted or random. Authorities also declined to answer whether more individuals may be involved.
Law enforcement presence remains heightened in and around Heidelberg, with patrols stationed near schools and popular gathering spots as a precaution.
“We are taking this very seriously,” said Sheriff White. “We understand the fear and frustration in the community right now, and we’re doing everything we can to bring clarity and justice.”
Call for Public Assistance
Investigators are urging anyone who may have been at the scene, or who may have photos, videos, or other information from Friday night, to come forward.
“You never know what might help crack the case,” said Chief Carter. “Even the smallest detail—a license plate, a text message, a video clip—could be what gives us the answers we need.”
Anonymous tips can be submitted to the Jasper County Crime Stoppers at (601) XXX-XXXX, or via the Mississippi Department of Public Safety’s online tip portal.
Community Response and Next Steps
As the search for Tylar Jarod Goodloe continues, many in the Heidelberg area are calling for a community meeting and greater safety protocols at school events. Several parents have voiced concerns about the lack of visible security at the time of the incident, while others have urged the community not to rush to judgment until the investigation is complete.
Faith leaders are also stepping in, planning a prayer vigil Sunday evening at a local church to bring people together in hope, unity, and healing.
“This is a time for compassion, strength, and resilience,” said Pastor Alvin Greene of First Baptist Church Heidelberg. “We will not let fear or violence define our town. We will rise together, and we will protect our children.”
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