Heartbreak in Hernando: Community Mourns Kasey Rowley, 28, Killed in Home Shooting
HERNANDO, MS — A wave of grief has washed over Hernando, Mississippi, as the city and the wider Independence community mourn the tragic and untimely death of 28-year-old Kasey Maria Rowley. The beloved young woman was found fatally shot inside her home on the evening of Thursday, May 14, 2025, in a shocking incident that has left family, friends, and neighbors reeling with disbelief and heartbreak.
According to the Hernando Police Department, officers were dispatched to the residence on Elmwood Drive at approximately 8:15 p.m. following a report of a disturbance and possible gunfire. Upon arrival, responding officers discovered Kasey unresponsive with an apparent gunshot wound. Emergency medical personnel quickly responded to the scene, but tragically, she was pronounced dead shortly after.
The details surrounding the shooting remain under investigation. Law enforcement officials have confirmed that foul play is suspected, and they are actively pursuing leads to determine what exactly transpired in the moments leading up to Kasey’s death. As of Friday morning, authorities had not announced any arrests but stated that detectives are working diligently to piece together the events of that evening.
An Ongoing Investigation
“We are treating this case with the utmost urgency,” said Hernando Police Chief Jonathan Price during a brief press conference on Friday. “This is a tragedy that has shaken the community, and we are doing everything we can to find answers and deliver justice to the victim’s family.”
Investigators are reportedly reviewing surveillance footage from neighboring homes and businesses, interviewing witnesses, and processing forensic evidence collected from the scene. While police have not released specific details about potential suspects or motives, they have asked members of the public to come forward with any information that could aid the investigation.
“We urge anyone who may have seen or heard something unusual on the night of May 14th to contact our department,” Chief Price added. “No detail is too small. Your information could make the difference.”
A Community in Mourning
News of Kasey Rowley’s death has devastated the communities of Hernando and her hometown of Independence, where she was widely known and loved. Family, friends, former classmates, and co-workers described her as warm, nurturing, and fiercely loyal—a young woman who always put others before herself and carried a deep sense of compassion in everything she did.
“She was sunshine in human form,” said childhood friend Megan Thornton. “She had the kind of soul that just wrapped you up in love. To think that someone could take her life this way is just unthinkable.”
Kasey leaves behind two young children, ages 6 and 9, who are now in the care of close relatives. Family members are grappling not only with the emotional devastation of her loss but also with the trauma experienced by her children, who were reportedly not harmed in the incident but were nearby when the shooting occurred.
“They’ve lost their mother,” said her older sister, Danielle Rowley. “We lost our baby sister. She didn’t deserve this. No one does.”
A Life Cut Short
Kasey Maria Rowley was known for her radiant energy and big heart. At just 28 years old, she had built a life centered around her family, her children, and her community. A graduate of Independence High School, Kasey worked as a customer service representative and was active in local church and school events. She was often the first to volunteer at fundraisers or lend a helping hand to friends in need.
“She always gave more than she had,” said Pastor Ray Jenkins of the local New Hope Fellowship Church, where Kasey occasionally attended services and volunteered. “She believed in love, forgiveness, and faith. This violence is the opposite of everything she stood for.”
In the wake of her death, candlelight vigils have been organized in both Hernando and Independence. Hundreds gathered Friday night on the front lawn of the church where Kasey once sang in the youth choir, lighting candles, releasing balloons, and sharing stories of the woman they loved so deeply.
Remembering Kasey: Love, Justice, and Healing
As the investigation into Kasey’s death continues, her family is pleading for justice and privacy. A GoFundMe page has been launched to assist with funeral expenses and to support her two young children as they face an uncertain future without their mother.
The family also announced plans to establish a scholarship fund in Kasey’s name to honor her legacy of kindness, service, and resilience.
“She deserved a long, happy life,” said her cousin Michelle. “And even though she was taken from us too soon, we will make sure her name lives on—not just in mourning, but in purpose.”
The Hernando Police Department is asking anyone with information related to the case to contact their tip line at (662) XXX-XXXX. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the DeSoto County Crime Stoppers hotline.
As the city of Hernando and the town of Independence come together in mourning, one message rings clear above all: Kasey Maria Rowley was loved, she mattered, and she will not be forgotten.
Funeral arrangements for Kasey Maria Rowley will be announced by the family in the coming days. Community members wishing to show support may contribute to memorial efforts or attend upcoming vigils, details of which will be shared through local social media pages and churches.