Brandon Tragedy: 25-Year-Old Woman Killed in Apparent Murder-Suicide Attempt Near McDonald’s — Community in Shock as Police Investigate
BRANDON, MISSISSIPPI — June 17, 2025 — What began as a routine evening near a busy fast-food restaurant in Brandon quickly turned into a scene of tragedy, as police continue to investigate a deadly shooting that left a young woman dead and a man hospitalized in what appears to be a failed murder-suicide.
According to the Brandon Police Department, officers were dispatched at 6:51 p.m. on Monday, June 16, to the McDonald’s located at 132 Stribling Lane following multiple 911 calls reporting the sound of gunfire.
When authorities arrived on the scene, they found two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds. One of the victims, identified as 25-year-old Kianna Jackson, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her death was later confirmed by Rankin County Coroner David Ruth on Tuesday.
The second individual, 27-year-old Jhonterryes Dampier, was discovered nearby with what investigators believe to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was transported to a local hospital, where he remains under medical supervision. Officials have not yet released details about his current condition.
Preliminary investigations suggest that Dampier is the primary suspect in Jackson’s death. While the exact relationship between the two individuals has not been confirmed, investigators suspect a personal connection, possibly romantic in nature. Authorities have not yet released a motive, and formal charges are pending as the investigation unfolds.
In a statement Monday night, Brandon Police Chief Joseph French addressed the incident, stating:
“At this time, we believe this was an isolated act of violence. There is no continuing threat to the public, but our department is committed to uncovering all the facts surrounding this heartbreaking event.”
Witnesses near the McDonald’s described the terrifying moment shots rang out. One woman who had just picked up food said, “I heard loud pops, and within seconds, police and EMS were everywhere. I didn’t know what was happening — I just held my child and prayed.”
The area was secured for several hours as investigators processed the scene and spoke to potential witnesses. Surrounding businesses temporarily closed as a precaution and out of respect for the ongoing police activity.
News of Kianna Jackson’s death has sent ripples through the Brandon community. Friends and loved ones flooded social media with photos and tributes, remembering her as a vibrant, warm-hearted, and ambitious young woman with a promising future. “She didn’t deserve this,” wrote one close friend. “She was just beginning her life.”
Community leaders have also expressed grief and frustration at the rising number of intimate partner violence cases that escalate to fatal outcomes. Local advocates are encouraging those in unsafe situations to reach out for help and reminding the public that resources are available 24/7.
As the investigation continues, Brandon Police are asking anyone with additional information about the shooting to contact them directly. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crimestoppers.
For now, a family is left in mourning, and a community is left searching for answers.