New York, Oct. 20, (V7N) – A shooting following a homecoming football game in Mississippi has resulted in three fatalities and eight injuries, casting a shadow over what should have been a celebratory event.

Holmes County Sheriff Willie March confirmed that deputies responded to a call around 12:30 a.m. on Saturday, reporting multiple shootings near North Highway 17, just five minutes from Lexington, approximately 62 miles north of Jackson.

The incident occurred during a trail ride event that followed the Holmes County Consolidated School’s homecoming celebration, which had been marked by the football team's victory. “People wanted to celebrate the win, but not everyone shared that intention,” Sheriff March stated.

According to March, the shooting erupted after an altercation among a group of young men. Some of the injured were airlifted to a hospital in Jackson, while others were transported by ambulance.

Law enforcement is actively searching for suspects involved in the shooting, with assistance from the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation.

The victims who lost their lives have been identified as:

Martel Gibson, 25, of Durant, Shundra Chestnut, 19, of Kosciusko, John Jenkins, 19, of Durant

This tragic incident highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence and public safety during community gatherings.

END/NYC/SMA/