Mississippi Mother Killed, Child Airlifted in Robinsonville Triple Shooting; Suspect at Large
ROBINSONVILLE, MS – A quiet Friday evening turned tragic in the small community of Robinsonville, Mississippi, as a horrific act of gun violence claimed the life of a young mother, critically injured her 6-year-old daughter, and left a third victim fighting for his life. Authorities are now searching for the suspected gunman, identified as Markello Braxton, who remains at large and is considered armed and dangerous.
The Tunica County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that deputies were dispatched to a residence at 1060 Soleil Drive at approximately 7:06 p.m. on Friday, July 11, 2025, in response to a distressing 911 call reporting multiple gunshot victims. Upon arrival, officers found a deeply disturbing scene: three individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.
Thirty-year-old Nykeria Jude, a beloved mother and member of the Robinsonville community, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her young daughter, Marlaysia Braxton, just 6 years old, had sustained severe injuries and was rushed by air to Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital in Memphis, where she remains in critical condition. A 24-year-old man, whose identity has not yet been released, was also seriously wounded and transported to Regional One Health via helicopter for emergency medical treatment.
The suspect, Markello Braxton, is believed to have fled the scene immediately following the shooting. Authorities have since launched a manhunt for Braxton, who is known to have ties to the area. Law enforcement officials have warned the public not to approach him, emphasizing that he should be considered extremely dangerous.
The motive behind the shooting remains under investigation, though law enforcement is working around the clock to piece together the events that led to this senseless act of violence. At this time, investigators have not confirmed the nature of the relationship between the suspect and the victims, though sources indicate there may have been a domestic connection.
In a public statement, the Tunica County Sheriff’s Office expressed their condolences to the victims’ families and asked for the community’s support in locating the suspect. “This is a devastating loss for the family and our entire community,” said a department spokesperson. “We are asking anyone who may have seen or heard anything — no matter how small it may seem — to please come forward.”
Tips can be submitted by calling the Tunica County Sheriff’s Office at 662-363-1411 or Crime Stoppers at 662-910-0400. Tipsters can remain anonymous.
The heartbreak caused by this tragedy has rippled throughout the Robinsonville area. Friends, neighbors, and local officials have taken to social media to express their sorrow and support for the surviving victims. A community prayer vigil is reportedly being organized in support of Marlaysia and the other injured victim, while also honoring the memory of Nykeria Jude — described by those who knew her as a kind, vibrant, and loving mother who devoted her life to her daughter.
As investigators continue to gather evidence and work to bring justice to the victims and their families, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant. Additional updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
This shocking incident marks yet another chapter in the growing concern over gun violence in American communities, both large and small. But for the family of Nykeria Jude and those who knew her, the pain is deeply personal and the wounds left behind will last a lifetime.