Humphreys County and Yazoo City will not face one another in football on Friday, following the shooting death of a student-athlete.
The Humphreys County School District announced Thursday that the Cowboys and Indians will not square off on the gridiron, citing the recent death of 16-year-old Jakamryn Price. Price, a junior defensive end and tight end at Humphreys County, was shot and killed on Aug. 21 following a home football scrimmage.
“To allow our students, families, and the broader community additional time for reflection and healing, the Humphreys County School District has decided not to hold the football game scheduled for tomorrow night against Yazoo City,” Superintendent Dr. Stanley Ellis said in a statement. “This decision was not made lightly. We recognize the important role that athletics and other extracurricular activities play in enriching our students’ overall educational experience and supporting their personal growth.”
The game was scheduled to be played in Belzoni. Ellis said the cancellation will not affect either teams’ chance of earning a playoff spot down the road, as the opponents are not in the same district. Humphreys County is a Class 3A, Region 3 team, while Yazoo City is a Class 4A, Region 4 team.
“This was not a district game; therefore, the cancellation will not affect our team’s eligibility or opportunity to advance to the playoffs,” Ellis continued. “We appreciate the understanding and continued support of our school community.”
As for Price’s death, two arrests have been made. Belzoni police announced that Jaronski Watson and Jayden Holmes have been taken into custody in connection with the fatal shooting. An investigation into the gunfire remains ongoing.
