Forrest County Man Fatally Shot; James Walker in Custody After Incident in Dixie Community
Forrest County Man Fatally Shot; James Walker in Custody After Incident in Dixie Community
FORREST COUNTY, Miss. (WDAM) — Authorities in Forrest County are investigating a deadly shooting that occurred Wednesday afternoon in the Dixie community, leaving 59-year-old Thomas Roseberry dead and 41-year-old James Walker of Hattiesburg injured and in custody.
Deputies with the Forrest County Sheriff’s Office were called to the scene following reports of gunfire. When they arrived, they found Thomas Roseberry suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency responders performed life-saving measures, but Coroner Lisa Klem confirmed that Roseberry died at the scene.
James Walker, who was also injured during the incident, was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. After receiving treatment, Walker was arrested and booked into the Forrest County Adult Detention Center in connection with the shooting. The exact charges against him have not yet been publicly announced, pending further investigation.
Investigation Continues
Law enforcement officials have not released many details about the events that led to the shooting or the nature of the relationship between Roseberry and Walker, though sources indicate the altercation may have stemmed from a personal dispute. Detectives from the Sheriff’s Office spent several hours on the scene gathering evidence and speaking with witnesses.
The Forrest County District Attorney’s Office is reviewing the case and is expected to determine formal charges in the coming days.
“This is a heartbreaking situation for everyone involved,” said a spokesperson from the Sheriff’s Office. “Our investigators are working diligently to uncover the facts and ensure justice is served.”
Community Mourns Thomas Roseberry
News of Thomas Roseberry’s death has left the Dixie community in shock. Friends and neighbors described him as a quiet, kind man who had lived in the area for many years and was well-liked by those around him.
“Tom was a good neighbor,” said a local resident. “It’s hard to believe something like this could happen right here in our community.”
Family members are mourning the sudden loss and are in the process of making funeral arrangements to honor his memory.
Authorities Request Public’s Help
Investigators are asking anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward. Tips may be submitted to the Forrest County Sheriff’s Office at (601) 544-7800 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (601) 582-STOP.
As the community comes to terms with this tragic loss, law enforcement officials remain focused on uncovering the truth behind the altercation that claimed Thomas Roseberry’s life and resulted in the arrest of James Walker.
