LOUISVILLE, MISSISSIPPI — The city of Louisville is grappling with a deep sense of loss, mourning, and unease following the tragic drive-by shooting that claimed the life of 24-year-old Quincy Markez Haynes on the night of Tuesday, June 17, 2025. Known to many in the community as a young man with promise, ambition, and heart, Haynes’ sudden and violent death has shaken this quiet Mississippi town to its core. The news of his passing spread swiftly, igniting both grief and calls for justice throughout the region.

In a significant development, the Louisville Police Department, working closely with the Winston County Sheriff’s Office, announced on Wednesday, June 18, that two suspects had been taken into custody in connection with the fatal shooting. Authorities identified the suspects as 18-year-old Ja’Lavian Hunt and 30-year-old Terence Randall Griffin Jr., both residents of Louisville. Law enforcement confirmed that both individuals are now facing serious felony charges in relation to the murder.

Arrests Made Less Than 24 Hours After Shooting

According to law enforcement officials, the arrests were the result of a swift and coordinated investigation that began immediately after the shooting was reported. Detectives worked through the night, canvassing neighborhoods, collecting surveillance footage, and speaking with potential witnesses. Sources close to the investigation revealed that critical evidence, including video footage and eyewitness accounts, helped identify the suspects within hours of the crime.

By the afternoon of June 18, warrants were issued for the arrests of Hunt and Griffin Jr. Police units, supported by deputies from the Winston County Sheriff’s Office, executed the arrests without incident at separate locations within city limits. Both suspects were transported to the Winston-Choctaw County Regional Correctional Facility, where they are currently being held without bond pending a preliminary court hearing.

The Night of the Shooting

The shooting occurred just after 10:30 p.m. on Tuesday in a residential area on the east side of Louisville. According to police reports, Haynes was standing near a parked vehicle outside a residence when a car approached and opened fire. Multiple shots rang out, striking Haynes several times before the vehicle sped away from the scene.

Emergency responders arrived within minutes and began life-saving efforts, but Haynes was pronounced dead at the scene. A subsequent autopsy revealed that he suffered multiple gunshot wounds to the upper body. Police have not yet disclosed the type of firearm used or how many rounds were fired.

Investigators believe the attack was targeted, though the exact motive remains under investigation. Louisville Police Chief Sean Holdiness stated during a press briefing that “this was not a random act of violence,” and that “detectives are actively exploring possible motives, including prior disputes and gang-related activity.” However, Chief Holdiness emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and that they are not ruling anything out at this stage.

A Community in Mourning

The death of Haynes has left the Louisville community in profound sorrow. Friends and family have described him as kind-hearted, soft-spoken, and full of potential. He had recently started working full-time and had spoken of plans to return to school later in the year. Those who knew him said he had a passion for music, a deep love for his family, and a desire to make something of himself despite the challenges he faced growing up.

A vigil was held on the evening of June 18 at the site of the shooting. Dozens of people gathered to honor his memory, lighting candles and releasing balloons into the night sky. Several family members spoke tearfully, remembering Haynes as a beloved son, brother, and friend. A local pastor led the group in prayer, asking for peace, healing, and justice.

The vigil also served as a rallying cry for unity. Community leaders and residents used the moment to denounce the violence that claimed Haynes’ life and called for meaningful action to prevent future tragedies. “This cannot be the legacy of our young men,” said one speaker. “We need resources, support, and safety in our streets.”

Reactions from City Officials

Mayor Will Hill issued a statement shortly after the arrests, expressing his condolences to the Haynes family and commending the swift action of law enforcement. “This is a tragic and senseless loss of life,” the statement read. “Our city mourns with the family of this young man. I am proud of the tireless work of our law enforcement officers who responded quickly and brought those responsible into custody. We remain committed to the safety and wellbeing of every resident in our city.”

Winston County Sheriff Jason Pugh also addressed the public, noting that the collaboration between agencies was crucial in resolving the case quickly. “We are grateful for the tips and support from the community that helped lead us to these arrests,” he said. “We encourage anyone with additional information to come forward.”

Legal Proceedings Begin

Both Hunt and Griffin Jr. have been formally charged with first-degree murder, drive-by shooting, and unlawful discharge of a firearm. If convicted, they could face life in prison or potentially the death penalty under Mississippi law. The suspects are expected to appear in court later this week for an initial hearing, where formal charges will be read, and bond considerations reviewed.

Legal analysts following the case have noted the gravity of the charges, particularly given the alleged premeditated nature of the shooting. “These are extremely serious accusations,” said one local criminal defense attorney not involved in the case. “Drive-by shootings are treated very harshly in the justice system because of their dangerous nature and the potential for collateral damage.”

It remains unclear whether either of the suspects will seek legal representation from the public defender’s office or retain private counsel. As of Thursday morning, no formal plea has been entered.

The Broader Context of Violence

Haynes’ death is the latest in a series of violent incidents that have troubled this part of Mississippi in recent months. While Louisville has generally been viewed as a safe and close-knit community, recent increases in shootings and youth-involved crime have stirred growing concern among residents and officials alike.

Data from the Louisville Police Department indicates that gun-related crimes have risen 18% compared to the same period last year. Law enforcement attributes the increase to a combination of factors, including disputes among young adults, limited community resources, and the increased circulation of firearms among teens and young adults.

City leaders have pledged to invest more in youth outreach programs, violence intervention strategies, and mental health services to curb the rising tide of gun violence. However, the impact of these efforts will take time, and residents are calling for more immediate solutions.

Remembering a Life Lost

As the investigation continues and legal proceedings unfold, the focus for many remains on remembering the life of a young man whose time was cut far too short. A memorial service is being planned by the family, who have asked for privacy as they grieve and prepare to lay their loved one to rest.

In the meantime, a growing makeshift memorial outside the shooting site continues to attract mourners. Flowers, candles, hand-written notes, and photos now line the sidewalk, serving as a poignant reminder of a life lost and a community struggling to heal.

Local organizations have stepped in to offer support, including grief counseling services and financial assistance to the family. A GoFundMe campaign has also been launched to help cover funeral costs and provide support for the victim’s siblings.

A Call for Justice and Change

The death of Quincy Markez Haynes is not just a personal tragedy—it is a wake-up call to a community facing the complicated intersections of youth violence, systemic challenges, and the need for stronger intervention. His name now joins a growing list of young lives lost to senseless violence, and with it comes renewed determination to change the course of the future.

Louisville now finds itself at a crossroads: mourning a heartbreaking loss while striving to build a safer, more supportive environment for its youth. As the legal system seeks accountability for this crime, residents hope that true justice will go beyond the courtroom—and into the heart of the community where change is so desperately needed.