The court date for the suspect linked to the death of a beloved fixture in the Ocean Springs community is May 25. In the meantime, tributes to Carl the Rooster continue to spring up at businesses and homes across the city.
Carl was taken from his perch in late April. Former Jones County Corrections Officer Kendra Shaffer allegedly abducted and killed the beloved town pet. She was immediately fired from her job and charged with animal cruelty.
Cynthia Dobbs Sutton with the Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce told SuperTalk Mississippi that Carl had become a draw for the city. Travel writers frequently asked to see him when they came to town.
“He had a certain route that he traveled each day. All the business owners in that area, nobody ever bothered him. He was just kind of part of the team,” Sutton said.
Young and old gathered for a sidewalk second line Tuesday night, a unique opportunity to say goodbye to the city mascot. Carl’s image could be found on their t-shirts, handkerchiefs, umbrellas, and other items worn by those who filled the streets.
And now when you drive through the streets of Ocean Springs, you’ll be greeted by metal statues and trinkets in honor of Carl as his mystique will forever endure.
