Deadly Shooting Erupts in Downtown Jackson After Hal’s St. Paddy’s Day Parade

Jackson, MS – March 23, 2025

A festive celebration turned tragic when gunfire erupted in Downtown Jackson following the annual Hal’s St. Paddy’s Day Parade, leaving at least one person dead and multiple others injured. This marks the second shooting incident in three years following the widely attended event, raising serious concerns about public safety and security measures during large gatherings in the city.

Chaos After the Parade

The Hal’s St. Paddy’s Day Parade, known as one of Mississippi’s biggest annual events, draws thousands of people to Downtown Jackson for music, food, and festivities. However, the lively atmosphere quickly turned to panic and horror as gunfire rang out in the midst of crowds still celebrating after the parade’s official conclusion.

Witnesses described chaotic scenes, with people screaming, running for cover, and ducking behind vehicles and buildings as shots were fired. Law enforcement and emergency responders rushed to the scene, where they discovered multiple gunshot victims.

Casualties and Injuries

Officials have confirmed at least one fatality due to the shooting, though they have not yet released the identity of the deceased pending notification of family members. Several others sustained gunshot wounds and were transported to local hospitals, with some in critical condition.

The exact number of injured victims remains unclear, as authorities continue to assess the situation and gather reports from medical facilities treating the wounded.

Second Parade-Related Shooting in Three Years

This tragedy comes just three years after a previous shooting that occurred following the same parade, sparking renewed concerns about event security and the rise in violent incidents during large public gatherings.

Residents, city officials, and event organizers are demanding answers, questioning whether adequate safety measures were in place to prevent this year’s deadly violence.

Investigation Underway

The Jackson Police Department (JPD) and other law enforcement agencies have launched an active investigation into the shooting, working to determine the motive, identify the suspect(s), and piece together the events leading up to the attack.

Key actions being taken include:
🔍 Reviewing surveillance footage from businesses and street cameras near the crime scene.
🔍 Interviewing witnesses who may have seen the shooter(s) or have relevant information.
🔍 Collecting forensic evidence from the scene to aid in identifying the perpetrator(s).
🔍 Patrolling the area to ensure no further threats exist.

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the shooting was targeted or random, and no suspects have been publicly named.

Community in Shock and Mourning

The Jackson community is once again reeling from a senseless act of violence, as families grieve the loss of a loved one and others anxiously await news of the survivors’ conditions.

Residents have taken to social media to express their anger, sadness, and concerns, calling for tougher security measures at future public events and urging law enforcement to swiftly bring those responsible to justice.

City officials and parade organizers have also spoken out, expressing their deep condolences to the victims’ families and vowing to work closely with law enforcement to prevent future violence.

Call for Public Assistance

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward and assist with the investigation.

📞 Jackson Police Department: (601) 960-1234
📞 Crime Stoppers: (601) 355-TIPS (8477)

Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers, and a reward may be available for information leading to an arrest.

What’s Next?

As Jackson police continue their investigation, community members and city officials are expected to meet in the coming days to discuss security concerns for future public events.

With two shootings now linked to the Hal’s St. Paddy’s Day Parade in recent years, many are calling for enhanced police presence, stricter security screenings, and preventive measures to ensure the safety of attendees.

For now, the city mourns another life lost and prays for the recovery of the injured, as police work diligently to bring justice to those affected by this heartbreaking act of violence.

This is a developing story, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.