Two suspects are in custody in connection with a Saturday shooting in Starkville.
The Starkville Police Department announced Sunday the arrests of Jauntel Hughes Jr., 19, and Jordyn Barrett, 21, both Starkville residents. Each is charged with attempted murder.
Law enforcement responded Saturday at approximately 11:49 p.m. to Maxwell Street near Lummus Drive in the Cotton District, where they found one person suffering from gunshot wounds. The victim, whose identity has not been released, was airlifted to a hospital for treatment. Their current condition is unknown.
Starkville PD said the individuals involved knew each other prior to the shooting.
The department added that it is not the first time Hughes and Barrett have been arrested. Both were taken into custody by Starkville PD in September 2025, though details about those earlier charges were not immediately available.
The Mississippi State University Police Department and the Oktibbeha County Sheriff’s Office assisted Starkville PD in the investigation, which remains active and is expected to see additional arrests.
The shooting occurred during one of Starkville’s busiest weekends each year with the university’s “Super Bulldog Weekend” happening on campus along with several events and festivals taking place in town. Throughout the weekend, Starkville PD made at least 26 arrests on various charges.
Starkville Mayor Lynn Spruill, who has been the target of criticism on social media following the shooting, said the city is considering additional security measures for the Cotton District, including potential mandatory checkpoints with bag checks and metal detectors. The area, which features restaurants and bars, serves as the city’s primary nightlife hub.
“It’s a possibility. We are working on a measured approach and reasonable response,” Spruill wrote on X.
