LELAND, Miss. (RTW) — Local law enforcement and community leaders are urgently asking for public assistance in identifying individuals of interest in connection with a devastating mass shooting in Leland, Mississippi that occurred during a homecoming celebration, resulting in six deaths.
A press conference is scheduled for Thursday at Leland City Hall, where local police, along with officials from the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation and the FBI, will provide further updates on their search for suspects.
“We are actively gathering any and all information regarding potential suspects,” communicated Leland Mayor John Lee. “This incident has left our community in shock and devastation.”
Following last Friday's shooting, several individuals have been charged with capital murder and over a dozen others suffered injuries in this tragic event.
The FBI's Jackson Field Office has initiated the release of photos of suspects sought for questioning. This violent episode unfolded shortly after a local high school football game, as residents celebrated homecoming weekend downtown.
“There remains a sense of numbness throughout our community. Families are grieving deeply and many have yet to make funeral arrangements,” Mayor Lee added, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
The mass shooting in Leland has been identified as the deadliest among several similar incidents across Mississippi that weekend, which also included gunfire at two other locations linked to homecoming festivities. Officials have yet to disclose a motive, though initial reports suggest the violence may have stemmed from disputes among individuals present at the celebration.
Witnesses have recounted scenes of chaos and horror, with one individual noting, “It was the most horrific scene I’d ever seen.” As the investigation continues, community leaders are working to ensure that any information regarding the suspects is brought forward to aid in seeking justice for the victims.
