Manhunt Underway: Markello Braxton Wanted for Fatal Shooting of Girlfriend in Tunica County
TUNICA COUNTY, MS – July 11, 2025 — A manhunt is intensifying across Mississippi and neighboring states after a horrific shooting Friday night left one woman dead and two others — including a 6-year-old child — critically injured in Tunica County. Authorities have named Markello Braxton, of Robinsonville, as the primary suspect and warn that he is armed, dangerous, and on the run.
Deputies with the Tunica County Sheriff’s Office were called to a residence on Soleil Drive just before 10:00 p.m. on Friday, July 11, following multiple reports of gunfire. When officers arrived, they discovered a devastating scene: three individuals had been shot inside the home.
30-year-old Nykerai Jude, identified as Braxton’s girlfriend, was found dead at the scene. Emergency responders said she had sustained multiple gunshot wounds and could not be revived. Two others — a 24-year-old man and a 6-year-old girl — were also shot and were immediately airlifted to Regional One Health in Memphis. Both victims remain hospitalized in critical condition.
Investigators believe the shooting was domestic in nature and that Braxton fled the scene immediately after opening fire. Deputies, with assistance from state law enforcement and U.S. Marshals, launched an intensive overnight manhunt, but as of Saturday evening, Braxton remains at large.
“Armed and Dangerous”
The Tunica County Sheriff’s Office has issued a first-degree murder warrant for Braxton’s arrest. He is considered extremely dangerous, and law enforcement officials are urging the public not to approach him under any circumstances.
Sheriff K.C. Hamp addressed the community during a press conference Saturday afternoon:
“This is a deeply disturbing act of violence that has shaken our entire county. A woman has lost her life, a young man and a child are fighting to survive, and the suspect responsible is still out there. We will not rest until he is in custody.”
Braxton is described as a Black male, approximately 6 feet tall, with short black hair and distinctive tattoos on both arms. He may be driving a dark gray Dodge Charger with Mississippi plates, though that vehicle has not been officially confirmed.
Authorities are working with regional and federal agencies to track Braxton’s whereabouts. Surveillance footage, witness statements, and cellphone data are being reviewed, and tips are being collected around the clock.
A Community in Mourning
As law enforcement continues its search, the Tunica County community is reeling from the violence. Friends and family of Nykerai Jude are mourning the loss of a beloved mother, daughter, and friend.
“She was everything to us,” said a family member. “She had a big heart, always smiling, always putting her daughter first. We can’t believe she’s gone.”
Neighbors have placed flowers, balloons, and candles outside the home where the tragedy unfolded. Many are still in disbelief that such violence occurred in their normally quiet neighborhood.
“It’s heartbreaking,” said one resident. “A mother killed, a child shot — it’s every family’s worst nightmare.”
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities have not yet released details about the circumstances that led up to the shooting or the relationship between Braxton and the other two victims. While a motive has not been confirmed, early indications point to an escalating domestic dispute that turned deadly.
Domestic violence advocates say this case is a grim reminder of the dangers many victims face every day. “It’s not just arguments — it’s about control, escalation, and sometimes, tragically, the loss of life,” said one advocate who works with survivors in north Mississippi.
Call for Public Help
The Tunica County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information about Braxton’s location to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at (662) 910-0400, or by contacting the Tunica County Sheriff’s Office at (662) 363-1411.
“We need the public’s help,” Sheriff Hamp said. “If you see something, say something. Do not approach him — just call us immediately.”
As the search continues, the county remains on edge, hoping for an arrest — and healing for the victims who survived and the families forever changed by this senseless act of violence.