JACKSON, Miss. — Fatal Shooting Near Elementary School Sparks Police Investigation and School Lockdown
A routine Monday afternoon in Jackson took a tragic turn as a fatal shooting occurred just steps away from an elementary school, prompting alarm and immediate action from both law enforcement and school officials.
According to the Jackson Police Department and the Jackson Public School District (JPS), the incident unfolded near Green Elementary School, located on Hillside Drive and Forest Avenue. At approximately 1:45 p.m., reports of gunfire were received, triggering a temporary lockdown of the school out of an abundance of caution.
A police spokesperson confirmed that a man was found at the scene suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite emergency efforts, the victim was pronounced dead shortly after the shooting. His identity has not yet been publicly released, and no suspects have been identified at this time. The motive for the shooting remains unknown, and investigators are continuing to interview witnesses and review any available surveillance footage from the area.
Sherwin Johnson, spokesperson for JPS, addressed the incident in a statement shortly after the lockdown was lifted:
“We are relieved to report that no one at the school was harmed. However, law enforcement is currently investigating a shooting in the vicinity. As a precaution, student dismissal is taking place away from the front of the school, near the area where the incident is believed to have occurred.”
Johnson emphasized that while students and staff were not in direct danger, the school responded quickly and appropriately to ensure the safety and security of everyone on campus. The lockdown was lifted once authorities determined there was no active threat to the school community.
The district also worked swiftly to inform parents and guardians, who were understandably concerned upon hearing of police activity near the school. Temporary changes to dismissal procedures were put in place to ensure students could leave campus safely and without exposure to the ongoing crime scene.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the surrounding neighborhood and the broader Jackson community. Residents expressed a mix of sorrow and frustration that such violence unfolded so close to a place of learning and innocence. “This is supposed to be a safe space for our children,” one parent said. “Something has to change. We can’t keep letting violence spill over into our schools and neighborhoods.”
Law enforcement officials are urging anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or who has information that could lead to the identification of a suspect to call Crime Stoppers at 601-355-TIPS. Tipsters can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward if their information leads to an arrest.
While Green Elementary School returns to normal operations, the incident remains a painful reminder of the violence that continues to affect too many communities. Counseling resources are being made available for any students or staff who may need support in the wake of the nearby tragedy.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available. For now, the community mourns the life lost and holds its children a little closer, grateful for their safety yet shaken by how close danger came.