Leland, MS — Authorities have arrested four suspects in connection with a mass shooting that killed six people and injured at least ten others in downtown Leland on October 10. The FBI confirmed the arrests on Monday, October 13, describing the incident as one of the deadliest mass shootings in Mississippi this year.
According to officials, the victims were attending a gathering following Leland High School’s homecoming football game when gunfire erupted.
Six Victims Identified in the Leland Shooting
The Washington County Coroner’s Office identified the victims as 18-year-old Kaslyn Johnson, 19-year-old Calvin Plant, 41-year-old Oreshama Johnson, and 25-year-old Shelbyona Powell, all of whom were pronounced dead at the scene.
One day later, authorities announced that 18-year-old Amos Brantley Jr. and 34-year-old JaMichael Jones had died from their injuries, bringing the total death toll to six.
According to ABC News, ten others were wounded and transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. The full extent of their injuries has not been released.
“This could have easily been in another city, just like it was here in Leland, Mississippi,” said Mayor John Lee, who called the incident a “great loss” for the community during an October 10 press conference.
Four Suspects in Custody
The FBI in Jackson, Mississippi, announced that Morgan Lattimore, Teviyon L. Powell, and William Bryant were each charged with capital murder, while a fourth suspect, Latoya A. Powell, 44, faces attempted murder charges.
Authorities say the investigation remains active, and additional arrests are pending.
An FBI spokesperson stated, “The shooting appeared to have been sparked by a disagreement among several individuals.”
Officials have not yet released details regarding the alleged dispute or the relationship between the suspects and the victims.
Community in Mourning
The city of Leland, located in Washington County, continues to mourn the loss of multiple young lives. Residents have gathered for vigils, with local churches and civic organizations offering counseling and support to affected families.
Mississippi State Senator Derrick Simmons told ABC affiliate WAPT that what began as a night of celebration turned into tragedy.
“People had gathered after the high school homecoming game — something that’s supposed to bring the community together — and it ended in unspeakable violence,” Simmons said.
Mayor Lee urged residents to remain united and called for peace as investigators continue their work.
Other Mississippi Shootings Over the Weekend
The Leland tragedy came during a weekend of widespread gun violence across Mississippi. The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation confirmed a separate shooting at Alcorn State University in Lorman on October 11, which left one person dead and two injured.
Later that same night, authorities in Jackson reported that a child was shot near a tailgate area at Jackson State University’s stadium. The child was taken to a local hospital, but officials have not provided an update on their condition.
Law enforcement agencies are now working to determine whether the incidents share any commonalities, though no links have been confirmed.
A Call for Calm and Accountability
The FBI, Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, and local police continue to collaborate on the Leland case, reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses. The agencies say they will hold all individuals responsible for their role in the shooting.
Community leaders are urging residents to come forward with any information that could assist the ongoing investigation.
What are your thoughts on this tragic case and the recent surge in gun violence across Mississippi? Share your views in the comments below.
