Leland, Mississippi – Community Grieves After Tragic Mass Shooting That Claimed Six Lives and Injured Ten Others

Leland, Mississippi – Community Grieves After Tragic Mass Shooting That Claimed Six Lives and Injured Ten Others

Leland, Mississippi – The tight-knit community of Leland is reeling in heartbreak and disbelief following a devastating mass shooting that claimed the lives of six individuals and left ten others injured late Friday night. What began as a night of celebration turned into one of the darkest tragedies in the town’s history, leaving families shattered and an entire community in mourning.

Authorities have confirmed the identities of the victims who tragically lost their lives in the senseless act of violence: Oreshama Johnson, 41; Calvin Plant, 19; Shelbyona Powell, 25; Kaslyn Johnson, 18; Amos Brantley, 18 (who succumbed to his injuries at the hospital); and JaMichael Jones, 34 (who also passed away at the hospital). Each name represents a life full of promise, love, and connection — lives that were cut short far too soon.

According to early reports, the shooting occurred shortly after a large community gathering following the Leland High School Homecoming game. Witnesses described the horrifying scene as chaos erupted when gunfire broke out, sending dozens fleeing for safety. Emergency responders from Leland, Greenville, and surrounding jurisdictions arrived swiftly on the scene to tend to the wounded and secure the area.

Sheriff’s deputies and the Leland Police Department are working closely with state investigators to determine what led to the tragedy. As of Saturday morning, officials have not released further details about a motive or potential suspects, though the investigation remains active and ongoing. Law enforcement has vowed to bring those responsible to justice and urged anyone with information to come forward.

The aftermath of the shooting has left Leland in mourning. Outside the high school and near the scene of the tragedy, community members have begun gathering with candles, flowers, and handwritten messages — small tokens of love and remembrance for those whose lives were lost. Local churches have opened their doors for prayer vigils and counseling sessions, as residents try to find solace in faith and unity during an unimaginable time.

Each victim leaves behind a story and a legacy that speaks to the soul of this community:

• Oreshama Johnson, 41, remembered as a devoted mother, friend, and pillar of kindness, was known for her generosity and her deep care for others.
• Calvin Plant, 19, a recent high school graduate, was described by loved ones as full of potential and ambition, with dreams of building a better future for himself and his family.
• Shelbyona Powell, 25, had a contagious smile and a spirit that brightened every room she entered. Her loved ones say she lived life with passion and love.
• Kaslyn Johnson, 18, was a vibrant young woman and beloved student whose future was filled with hope and promise.
• Amos Brantley, 18, fought valiantly for his life after being rushed to the hospital but sadly succumbed to his injuries. He will be remembered for his joyful personality and strong will.
• JaMichael Jones, 34, a hardworking father and community member, was known for his dedication to his family and his love of helping others.

In the wake of this tragedy, Leland residents have come together in grief, solidarity, and strength. The pain of loss runs deep, but so too does the resilience of a community determined to support one another and to honor the memories of those who were taken too soon.

Mayor and community leaders have issued statements expressing condolences to the families of the victims and pledging resources for counseling, victim support, and public safety improvements. “We are a family here in Leland,” one city official said. “When one of us hurts, we all hurt. We will not let violence define our town — we will rise together in love, faith, and unity.”

As the investigation continues and the community begins the long road to healing, residents and loved ones cling to one another, finding strength in shared sorrow and the enduring spirit of compassion that defines Leland.

May the souls of Oreshama Johnson, Calvin Plant, Shelbyona Powell, Kaslyn Johnson, Amos Brantley, and JaMichael Jones rest in eternal peace.

Gone but never forgotten — their memories will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved them.