McComb, Mississippi Mourns Teen’s Death Following Park Shooting; 17-Year-Old Charged as Adult
McComb, Miss. — A tragic shooting has rocked the McComb community as a 17-year-old boy faces a first-degree murder charge in connection with the death of another teenager during a party over the weekend. The incident occurred Friday evening in the Baertown community park, leaving two teens shot—one fatally—and sending shockwaves through the quiet Mississippi town.
Kendric Cowart, Jr., 17, is currently behind bars at the Pike County Detention Center, charged as an adult with first-degree murder in the death of 17-year-old Gary Thompson, according to Assistant Police Chief Earnest Perry. Authorities say Thompson sustained a gunshot wound during the incident and was airlifted to the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) in Jackson for emergency treatment. Despite the efforts of medical staff, Thompson later succumbed to his injuries.
Another teenage victim, whose name has not been released, was also injured in the shooting but is expected to recover, police confirmed.
The violent outburst took place during what was intended to be a gathering of young people at a local park—an event that was supposed to offer fun and connection, not tragedy. The Baertown park, typically a place for neighborhood recreation, is now the scene of sorrow and unanswered questions as investigators work to determine what led to the fatal exchange of gunfire.
While the motive for the shooting remains unclear, Assistant Chief Perry confirmed that an investigation is ongoing. Cowart is awaiting a preliminary hearing date, and officials say additional charges could be forthcoming as the case develops.
The news has devastated McComb High School, where all of the teenagers involved were students. In the wake of the tragedy, the school community quickly mobilized to provide support. On Saturday, just a day after the shooting, students, parents, school administrators, local pastors, and community members gathered in prayer, forming a powerful circle of unity in remembrance of Gary Thompson and in support of all affected.
In a show of swift action and compassion, school counselors were made available on campus Monday to help students cope with the grief, shock, and emotional toll of the violence. Administrators emphasized the importance of dialogue, healing, and mental health support as students returned to class with heavy hearts.
McComb High School Principal expressed condolences to the Thompson family and urged students to lean on each other and school staff during this difficult time. “We are heartbroken,” he said. “Gary was a part of our school family, and his loss is felt deeply by all of us. We ask our students to talk, to cry, and to remember him in love and peace.”
The shooting has sparked broader conversations throughout McComb and Pike County about youth violence, gun safety, and community support. Local leaders, including faith-based organizations and civic groups, are calling for increased intervention and preventative measures to protect young people from falling into cycles of violence.
As the investigation into the fatal shooting continues, the community waits for justice and answers, while honoring the memory of a young life taken too soon. Friends and classmates of Gary Thompson have begun organizing memorials and tributes, both in person and online, remembering him as a bright, kind-hearted teen with promise and dreams.
Anyone with information related to the shooting is encouraged to contact the McComb Police Department or Crime Stoppers to aid the investigation.
This heartbreaking event serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community unity in the face of tragedy.