Mississippi authorities said on Saturday that two shooting incidents occurred on Friday night, resulting in at least 6 deaths and dozens injured.
The first incident took place in Leland. The mayor of the city stated on Saturday that the shooting on Friday night resulted in at least 4 deaths and 12 injuries. It happened during a gathering after a homecoming football game at Leland High School.
The conditions of the injured are currently unknown. Mayor John Lee of Leland mentioned that the identity of the shooter is still unclear, and as of Saturday morning, the shooter has not been found.
The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation stated that they are assisting in the investigation.
FBI Director Kash Patel posted on social media platform X, stating that the FBI is aware of the shooting in Leland and is “mobilizing resources to assist the local government in the investigation.”
“Please pray for the victims and their families. We will provide updates soon,” he said.
Senator Derrick Simmons, representing the area, told the Associated Press that during the incident, “people were just gathered in downtown Leland, enjoying a good time.”
He was informed that after the shooting occurred, the scene was “very chaotic,” with police, sheriffs, and ambulances “coming from all directions.”
“This senseless gun violence is just heartbreaking,” Simmons said.
In addition to the Leland shooting, Governor Tate Reeves stated that authorities are also investigating another shooting incident in Heidelberg, which resulted in 2 deaths.
CBS affiliate WHLT reported that the shooting at Heidelberg High School also took place during a homecoming game. Governor Reeves mentioned that a suspect in the shooting has been detained by law enforcement.
Reeves stated that the entire state is praying for the victims, their families, and the communities of Heidelberg and Leland. The shooter will be brought to justice.