UPDATE: Two separate shootings in Meridian, Mississippi, over the weekend have left two individuals dead, prompting urgent responses from local authorities. Officials confirm that suspects in both cases have been charged with murder.
In a press conference earlier today, Police Chief Malachi Sanders revealed that both victims were known to their assailants, indicating these incidents are isolated. “The Meridian Police Department does not take this lightly. We’re committed to ensuring the safety of our community,” he stated.
The first incident occurred on Friday, October 25, around 5 p.m. when Jacarus Goodwin, 31, surrendered to police and claimed he killed his grandmother, Sandra Goodwin. Officers conducted a wellness check and found her shot. Despite efforts to revive her at Anderson Hospital, she later succumbed to her injuries. Jacarus has been charged with murder and felony possession of a firearm. Notably, he was on parole for a previous firearm conviction at the time of the shooting.
In the second incident, police responded to reports of a shooting on 11th Avenue at approximately 9:50 a.m. on Saturday, October 26. They discovered Tashonda Reed, 19, with a gunshot wound. She was initially taken to Anderson and later airlifted to the University of Mississippi Medical Center, where she tragically died. Her ex-boyfriend, Jaelin Price, has been arrested and charged with murder, felony possession of a firearm, and shooting into an occupied dwelling. Price was also on probation at the time of his arrest.
Chief Sanders praised the swift actions of Meridian’s officers, who apprehended Price within three hours of the shooting. He expressed gratitude toward local EMS and fire departments for their life-saving efforts and highlighted the community’s cooperation in solving these cases.
Meridian Mayor Percy Bland expressed sorrow over these tragic deaths, marking them as the first homicides since he took office on July 1. He urged residents to speak out against domestic violence and seek help through local organizations such as Care Lodge and Wesley House.
“The community plays a vital role in preventing violence,” Bland said, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and communication. “If you see something escalating, please don’t hesitate to report it.”
As investigations continue, authorities remain focused on ensuring public safety and reducing violence in Meridian. Residents are encouraged to stay alert and report any suspicious activity.
For ongoing updates on this developing story, stay tuned.
