LORMAN, Mississippi — What should have been a weekend of celebration, school pride, and joyful reunions at Alcorn State University turned into an unimaginable tragedy. A shooting during homecoming festivities late Saturday night left 29-year-old Brekyra Fisher dead and two others injured. On Monday, authorities confirmed the arrest of 26-year-old Taevion Doss, who now faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder.
The violent incident has rocked the university and surrounding communities, casting a shadow over one of the most anticipated weekends of the year. Family, friends, and former classmates are now grieving the loss of a bright, spirited young woman whose life was cut short in a matter of seconds.
A Celebration Turned Chaotic
The shooting occurred near the Alcorn State University campus during a large gathering of students, alumni, and local residents enjoying homecoming festivities. Witnesses described a joyful atmosphere that suddenly spiraled into chaos as gunfire rang out in the crowd.
Panic erupted as hundreds of people scrambled to take cover or flee the scene. Emergency services responded swiftly, but the damage had already been done.
When the gunfire stopped, three people had been hit. Brekyra Fisher, 29, was pronounced dead at the scene. Two others — whose names have not yet been released — sustained injuries. One remains hospitalized in stable condition, while the other has since been treated and released.
Remembering Brekyra Fisher
Brekyra Fisher was not a student at Alcorn State, but she had strong ties to the community. Friends say she had a magnetic personality and a generous heart. She had driven to Lorman to spend the weekend with friends, eager to enjoy the energy and excitement that homecoming always brings.
“She came here to be part of something joyful,” said a close friend who had attended the event with her. “Brekyra was light. She was laughter. She was that friend who never let you go through hard times alone.”
In the days following her death, social media has been flooded with heartfelt tributes, photos, and memories from loved ones and strangers alike. Vigils are being organized in her hometown and near campus, where candles and flowers now mark the spot where her life was taken.
Arrest Made: Taevion Doss in Custody
After a swift investigation that included eyewitness interviews and video evidence, Taevion Doss, 26, was arrested and charged in connection with the shooting. He is facing first-degree murder and aggravated assault charges and is currently being held without bond.
Authorities have not released a motive, but preliminary reports suggest the shooting may have stemmed from a dispute that escalated during the crowded event. Police are still working to determine whether Doss knew the victims and how the situation unfolded.
“We want the public to know that we are taking this case seriously,” said Claiborne County Sheriff Edward Good. “No family should have to lose a loved one like this — not at a celebration, not anywhere.”
Doss is expected to make his first court appearance later this week.
A Campus and Community in Mourning
Alcorn State University, one of the nation’s oldest historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), expressed heartbreak over the tragedy in an official statement:
“We are deeply saddened by the senseless violence that occurred during our homecoming weekend. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and everyone affected. The Alcorn community stands united in grief and resolve as we navigate this painful time.”
University officials have canceled all remaining homecoming activities out of respect for the victims and to prioritize the well-being of students and staff. Counselors have been made available on campus, and many professors have adjusted schedules to accommodate grieving students.
For many, this isn’t just about a single tragedy — it’s part of a much broader conversation about community safety, gun violence, and what needs to change.
“We Can’t Keep Losing Lives Like This”
In the aftermath of the shooting, leaders from the local and state level are calling for urgent reforms.
“This violence is heartbreaking, but sadly, not shocking anymore,” said State Rep. Tanya Mitchell. “We cannot keep allowing our young people to be caught in the crossfire of conflict and inaction. We need real change — in our communities, in our policies, and in our support systems.”
Community groups are mobilizing to offer resources for those affected and to push for more robust event security at public gatherings, especially on college campuses.
A Life Stolen, A Legacy That Will Live On
As Brekyra Fisher’s loved ones begin the painful process of planning her memorial, they do so with broken hearts but deep pride in the person she was. Friends say she had dreams of starting her own business, of traveling, of building a future she’d worked so hard to prepare for.
“She deserved to live those dreams,” said her cousin. “And we’re going to make sure her name is never forgotten.”
The tragedy at Alcorn State has left a deep wound — one that will not soon heal. But amid the sorrow, there is also a shared determination: to honor Brekyra’s memory by fighting for peace, justice, and a future where no family has to suffer this kind of loss again.
🕯️ A candlelight vigil for Brekyra Fisher is being planned near Alcorn State’s campus this weekend. The community is invited to come together in remembrance, reflection, and unity.
📞 If you have any information about the incident, please contact the Claiborne County Sheriff’s Office or submit a tip anonymously through Crime Stoppers.