Tragedy on Holden Street: 19-Year-Old Zephaniah Thompson Fatally Shot in Jackson as Police Search for Answers

JACKSON, Miss. — A Jackson neighborhood is reeling after a fatal shooting claimed the life of a 19-year-old man on Wednesday, May 7. The Jackson Police Department has launched an active investigation into the circumstances that led to the death of Zephaniah Thompson, who was found shot on Holden Street near Segura Avenue.

According to authorities, officers were dispatched to the 300 block of Holden Street in the early evening hours following reports of gunfire. When they arrived at the scene, they discovered Thompson suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Despite emergency response efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Victim Identified as Zephaniah Thompson

Family members and community residents later confirmed the identity of the victim as Zephaniah Thompson, a 19-year-old described by friends as soft-spoken, respectful, and full of potential. His sudden and violent death has sent shockwaves through the local community.

“He was just a good kid trying to find his way,” said one neighbor who knew the family. “This street has had its problems, but this… this is heartbreaking.”

Assault Rifle Recovered Nearby

In a surprising twist to the case, officers conducting a search of the surrounding area recovered an assault-style rifle not far from where Thompson’s body was found. Investigators have not yet confirmed whether the weapon was used in the shooting or if it was simply discarded nearby in connection to a separate matter.

“The presence of the rifle is a significant piece of evidence,” a Jackson Police Department spokesperson told reporters. “However, we are still in the early stages of piecing together what happened.”

Forensics teams are currently analyzing the weapon for fingerprints, ballistic evidence, and other forensic clues to determine its potential link to the fatal shooting.

No Suspects or Arrests So Far

As of Thursday morning, no suspects have been named, and no arrests have been made. Detectives are working to interview possible witnesses and canvass the area for surveillance footage that might have captured the events leading up to the shooting.

Police have issued a public plea for assistance, urging anyone with knowledge about the shooting to come forward. Tips can be shared with the Jackson Police Department at (601) 960-1234 or submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (601) 355-TIPS (8477).

A City Struggling with Youth Violence

Thompson’s death is the latest in a troubling pattern of gun violence involving young people in Jackson. Community leaders and advocacy groups are once again calling for comprehensive measures to combat the rising tide of violent crime, particularly among teens and young adults.

“Another young life stolen, another family left to grieve, and another community in fear,” said local activist Rev. Lorenzo Fields. “We need answers, yes—but more than that, we need solutions.”

As the investigation continues, a memorial is beginning to form on the corner of Holden Street, where candles, handwritten notes, and photos have been placed in Thompson’s memory.

“Zephaniah was more than a statistic,” said his cousin, who did not wish to be named. “He had dreams. He mattered.”

The Jackson Police Department is expected to release further updates as the case develops. For now, the community waits in sorrow and in search of justice for a young man whose life ended far too soon.