SCOTT COUNTY, MS — Communities Reeling After Tragic Shooting Claims the Life of 18-Year-Old Jetavion Johnson at Roosevelt State Park

June 23, 2025 — Scott County, Mississippi — A profound silence has fallen over the communities of Scott and Newton counties in the wake of a devastating tragedy that has left residents heartbroken and searching for answers. On the evening of Sunday, June 22, 18-year-old Jetavion Johnson was fatally shot during a violent incident at Roosevelt State Park—cutting short the life of a young man full of promise, talent, and warmth.

The shooting occurred around 6:30 p.m. during what was supposed to be a peaceful summer weekend at one of the region’s most popular recreational spots. Families, young people, and visitors had gathered to enjoy the park’s serene lakeside setting, unaware that violence would erupt and turn a place of relaxation into the site of a heartbreaking loss.

According to preliminary reports from the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, an altercation took place near the main recreational area of the park, escalating rapidly into gunfire. In the midst of the chaos, Johnson was struck by a bullet and gravely wounded. First responders were dispatched immediately, but despite emergency medical efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not yet released further details on the suspect or suspects involved, and an investigation is ongoing.

A Promising Life Cut Short

Jetavion Johnson was a recent graduate of Newton High School, where he had earned respect not only as a talented athlete but also as a devoted student and kind-hearted friend. Those who knew him describe him as someone who radiated positivity—a young man with an infectious smile and an unshakable spirit.

“He was the kind of kid who never passed you without a hello,” said Newton High School principal Marcus Bell. “He made everyone feel like they mattered. His death is not just a loss for his family—it’s a loss for our entire community.”

Friends and teammates recall his energy on the football field, his dedication to practice, and his dreams of one day becoming a physical therapist or a youth sports coach. Johnson had plans to attend East Central Community College in the fall, a milestone he had worked hard to reach and was immensely proud of.

“Tay was going to make something of himself,” said former coach Jalen Brooks, using Jetavion’s nickname. “He wanted to lift others up through sports—he saw the value in teamwork, in mentorship. He was wise beyond his years.”

An Outpouring of Grief

News of the shooting spread rapidly, sending waves of grief across both Scott and Newton counties. Vigils have been held in Johnson’s memory at Roosevelt State Park, Newton High School, and various churches, where family members, classmates, and local leaders have gathered to mourn, reflect, and offer prayers for healing and justice.

Photos of Jetavion—laughing with friends, dressed in his graduation cap and gown, scoring touchdowns on the field—have been widely shared on social media, accompanied by emotional tributes and messages of disbelief.

“Why him? Why now?” one community member posted. “Jetavion had so much ahead of him. We’re devastated.”

Local pastors have opened their sanctuaries for prayer and grief counseling, offering comfort to a community that is struggling not just with heartbreak, but with fear and frustration over the continuing toll of youth violence.

Search for Justice and Answers

The Scott County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation with support from state authorities. While no suspects have been officially named, officials have confirmed that several individuals are being questioned, and surveillance footage from nearby park cameras is being reviewed. Law enforcement has asked any witnesses or individuals with relevant information to step forward.

“This is an active and sensitive investigation,” said Sheriff Mike Lee during a brief press conference Monday morning. “We understand the pain this community is in, and we are committed to finding answers and ensuring accountability. Jetavion’s life mattered. We will not rest until justice is served.”

As of Monday evening, a $5,000 reward had been offered for information leading to an arrest in connection with the shooting.

A Call for Peace and Unity

While grief dominates much of the community’s current landscape, voices are also rising in a call for peace, safety, and proactive solutions. Community organizers and educators are renewing conversations around conflict resolution programs, gun safety education, and greater youth support services—hoping to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

“This is not who we are. This is not who we want to be,” said Rev. Londa Harris of Faith Tabernacle Church in Newton. “We’ve got to build stronger bridges for our youth—to give them a future, and to protect that future with everything we’ve got.”

Remembering Jetavion

Jetavion leaves behind his mother, Latrice Johnson; two younger siblings; his grandparents; aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends and mentors who saw him as a beacon of potential. A public memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 29 at New Life Outreach Church in Newton, with a community celebration of life at Newton High School gymnasium later that evening.

In honor of his legacy, the Johnson family is establishing the Jetavion Johnson Memorial Fund, which will support scholarships for local students and youth mentoring programs in Scott and Newton counties.

“His story shouldn’t end here,” said his uncle, David Johnson. “We want to carry his name forward by helping others succeed—just like Jetavion dreamed of doing.”

Final Reflections

As Scott County continues to mourn, the pain is deeply felt—but so too is the sense of unity and love that Jetavion inspired in his 18 years of life. He is remembered not for the tragic circumstances of his passing, but for the joy he brought, the hope he carried, and the dreams he dared to chase.

May his memory forever be a guiding light, and may his community find comfort in remembering the young man who gave them so many reasons to smile.

Would you like help drafting a formal obituary or designing a memorial announcement or scholarship proposal in his name?