The small town of Leland, Mississippi is heartbroken after a terrible mass shooting that happen on the night of October 10, 2025. What was supposed to be a fun homecoming celebration turned into a tragedy that no one expected.
The shooting took place right after the Leland High School football game on Main Street where students, parents and families were celebrating. This was one of the biggest events of the year as it people were laughing and talking when gunfire suddenly broke out making everyone run for safety. Seven people were killed and many others were injured.
Police say the violence may have started from a personal fight that got out of control. Officers from Leland Police, the FBI and the Mississippi Highway Patrol are all working together on the case. So far nine people have been arrested and some are being charged with capital murder.
Officials have released the names of six of the seven people who were killed in the Leland mass shooting. They are Oreshama Johnson, 41; Calvin Plant, 19; Shelbyona Powell, 25; Kaslyn Johnson, 18; Amos Brantley Jr., 18; and JaMichael Jones, 34.
Mayor Kenny Thomas talked about the tragedy saying, “Our town is small and we’re like family. Losing seven people is something we’ll never get over.” Schools in the area held a moment of silence to remember the victims and local churches opened there doors for prayer and support.
Neighbors are trying there best to help. Some started donation drives to help families pay for funerals and hospital bills. Others are bringing food and supplies to those who lost loved ones.
Many people in Leland are now talking about ways to make the town safer. Some want more police at events, while others say people should try to talk things out before fighting. Even though the town is hurting, people are trying to stay strong and bring hope back to their small community .
