SCOTT COUNTY, MS — Communities Mourn the Heartbreaking Loss of Jetavion Johnson, 18, Fatally Shot at Roosevelt State Park
Scott County, Mississippi — A cloud of sorrow has settled over the tight-knit communities of Scott and Newton counties after the tragic and untimely death of 18-year-old Jetavion Johnson, who was fatally shot on the evening of Sunday, June 22, 2025, at Roosevelt State Park. The shocking incident has left family, friends, and local residents reeling, as they grapple with the devastating loss of a young man described as full of promise, warmth, and an infectious zest for life.
According to the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, the shooting occurred around 6:30 p.m. near the main recreational area of the park, where dozens of people had gathered to enjoy the warm summer evening. Witnesses say a disturbance broke out near the picnic pavilions, escalating quickly into violence. Amid the chaos, gunfire rang out, and Jetavion was struck. Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene, but despite their efforts, Jetavion succumbed to his injuries before he could be transported to a medical facility.
The shooter fled the scene before law enforcement arrived, and an active investigation is now underway. Authorities have not yet released details about the suspected individual or the circumstances that led to the deadly altercation. Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information, photos, or videos related to the incident to come forward, stressing that community cooperation is critical in finding answers and ensuring justice.
Remembering Jetavion
Jetavion Johnson, a recent graduate of Newton High School, had just crossed a major milestone in his life. He was planning to enroll in East Central Community College this fall, with aspirations of studying kinesiology and one day becoming a physical therapist or athletic trainer. Friends recall his passion for sports, particularly football, where he was known as a reliable teammate and a fierce competitor on the field.
“Jet was the kind of person who lifted everyone around him,” said Coach Robert King, his high school football coach. “He had a smile that could light up the room, and he always made sure his teammates knew he had their backs. He was more than an athlete—he was a leader, a friend, and someone we all looked up to.”
Teachers and mentors echoed those sentiments, praising Jetavion’s positive attitude, work ethic, and respect for others. “He was the student you wanted in your classroom,” said Mrs. Janine Holloway, one of his teachers. “Always eager to learn, always kind, and never afraid to be himself.”
Community in Grief
As news of the shooting spread through Scott and Newton counties, an outpouring of grief followed. Vigils were quickly organized, with community members gathering at Newton High School’s football field and at Roosevelt State Park to light candles, pray, and share memories of Jetavion. At both locations, clusters of young people wept openly, while adults embraced one another, struggling to comprehend the senselessness of the loss.
“He was just starting his life,” said family friend Maurice Tatum. “We watched him grow up. He had plans, dreams. He was going to make something of himself.”
Local pastors and faith leaders have stepped forward to offer support to Jetavion’s family and peers, opening their churches for grief counseling and holding special services to honor his life. Several school counselors have also been made available to help students process their emotions as the tragedy ripples through the school district and beyond.
A Call for Peace and Accountability
While the focus remains on mourning and remembrance, Sunday’s deadly shooting has also renewed conversations around youth violence, gun safety, and the need for safe spaces in Mississippi’s rural communities. Community leaders, parents, and educators alike are calling for change.
“This cannot become our normal,” said Rev. Tyrone Mitchell of Greater New Hope Baptist Church. “We owe it to our young people to create an environment where they can grow, dream, and thrive—without the threat of violence snatching them away.”
Authorities continue to investigate the shooting, with local and state law enforcement agencies working together to identify and apprehend the individual responsible. Sheriff Mike Lee issued a statement Monday, vowing that his department would not rest until justice is served. “Jetavion’s life mattered,” he said. “We will pursue every lead, and we ask the public to stand with us in ensuring that whoever committed this terrible act is held accountable.”
Final Farewell
Jetavion Johnson leaves behind a grieving mother, Latrice Johnson, two younger siblings, and a large extended family that includes cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents who adored him. “He was our light,” his mother said through tears. “He had the biggest heart. He loved deeply and was loved deeply in return.”
A funeral service for Jetavion will be held on Saturday, June 29, at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Newton. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a celebration of life service at 12:00 p.m. Burial will take place at Forest Hill Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the “Jetavion Johnson Memorial Scholarship Fund,” which will be established to support local youth pursuing higher education—honoring Jetavion’s own dreams and aspirations.
A Legacy Not Forgotten
Though his life was heartbreakingly short, Jetavion Johnson’s legacy of kindness, joy, and perseverance will live on. He is remembered not for the way he died, but for the way he lived—with courage, with love, and with a heart that touched everyone he met.
As the community continues to mourn, they also hold tight to the hope that from this tragedy will come healing, action, and a renewed commitment to protecting and uplifting their youth.
May Jetavion rest in eternal peace.
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