Four suspects have been arrested for a mass shooting in Belzoni that took the life of one and injured at least four others.
The Humphreys County Sheriff’s Department confirmed the arrests to multiple outlets but did not release the suspects’ names. The suspects were arrested Monday evening and each charged with one count of murder and four counts of aggravated assault.
Gunfire rang out Saturday night on Silver City Road during Belzoni’s annual World Catfish Festival. When law enforcement arrived at the scene, they found 20-year-old Makayla Adams dead. Adams was a student at Delta State University and graduated from King’s Court High School in Greenville as her grade’s valedictorian.
“Makayla was an exceptional young woman – brilliant, kind, and full of promise. Her leadership, academic excellence, and gentle spirit left a lasting impact on our school family,” a social media post from King’s Court Christian Academy reads. “We extend our deepest prayers and condolences to her family, friends, and all who loved her. Though her time with us feels far too short, her legacy will continue to inspire us.”
Belzoni city leaders, unaccustomed to such violence, held a private emergency meeting to address the violence.
“Our hearts are heavy here in Belzoni, Mississippi, as we mourn the tragic loss of Makayla Adams. This senseless act has left a deep pain in our community that words can hardly express,” city leaders said in a statement. “…Makayla’s life mattered, and she will never be forgotten.”
Motivation behind the shooting is still unclear. The investigation remains active with the Humphrey’s County Sheriff’s Department asking for any relevant information to be turned in by calling (662) 247-2551.
