Tragedy at Heidelberg High School Football Game: Two Dead, One Injured in Shooting
HEIDELBERG, Miss. — What began as a night of excitement, pride, and community spirit at the Heidelberg High School football field turned into an evening of heartbreak and fear when gunfire erupted during Friday night’s game, leaving two people dead and at least one person injured.
According to Heidelberg Police Chief Cornell White, the shooting occurred on school grounds during or shortly after the conclusion of the game. One victim was found near the baseball field, while another was discovered in a tailgating area close to the bleachers. A third individual suffered injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Police have identified Isiah ThaKid Dawkins as the primary suspect in the case. Isiah ThaKid Dawkins remains at large and is considered armed and dangerous, authorities said. Chief White confirmed that a multi-agency manhunt is currently underway to locate and apprehend him.
“Law enforcement will remain on the ground throughout the night and into the early hours of Saturday morning,” Chief White stated. “Our top priority is to assist the victims’ families, preserve crucial evidence, and identify all individuals involved in this tragic incident.”
The Heidelberg Police Department is leading the investigation in coordination with the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI). Additional support has been provided by the Mississippi Highway Patrol, Bay Springs Police Department, and the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, who have joined forces in the search effort and evidence collection.
As the night unfolded, flashing red and blue lights illuminated the school’s parking lot and athletic fields, casting a somber glow over the scene. A heavy police presence lined the area between the Career Ready Building and the football field as detectives began their work. Ambulances arrived swiftly in response to the 911 calls, and emergency personnel transported victims under tight security.
What had been a lively atmosphere of cheers and school spirit moments earlier was quickly replaced by panic and chaos. Students, families, and supporters who had gathered to celebrate a local tradition suddenly found themselves running for safety. Some lingered nearby in shock, unable to process the horror that had unfolded before their eyes.
Witnesses described the aftermath as “heart-wrenching,” with people comforting one another and law enforcement working quickly to secure the area. “There were tears, disbelief, and a lot of fear,” one attendee shared. “You never think something like this could happen in your hometown, especially at a high school game.”
Heidelberg Mayor Robert Barnett addressed the tragedy late Friday night, expressing deep sorrow for the victims and emphasizing that the incident was an isolated act of violence.
“Due to these unforeseen and tragic circumstances, the City of Heidelberg is in full cooperation with the school district, the sheriff’s department, and state investigators,” Barnett said. “We will pursue the person responsible to the fullest extent of the law. This town is strong, and we will not allow acts like this to define who we are.”
Mayor Barnett also reassured residents that Heidelberg remains a safe and close-knit community, urging unity and calm while law enforcement continues its investigation.
The loss has left an emotional scar on the small Mississippi town, where high school football has long been a unifying force. Community members are now leaning on one another for strength, sharing prayers, and expressing grief for those whose lives were cut short.
Authorities are asking anyone who attended the game or has information, photos, or videos from the event to come forward to assist in the investigation. Those with details are urged to contact the Heidelberg Police Department at (601) 787-3322.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the victims of this senseless act of violence and prays for healing in the days ahead.
“This should have been a night of unity and celebration for our students and our town,” Chief White said. “Instead, it became a night of sorrow that will never be forgotten. We will find those responsible, and justice will be served.”
