Police Make Arrest as Students, Community Seek Healing After Deadly Homecoming Violence
A celebration turned tragic early Sunday when a shooting at Tuskegee University left one person dead and injured 16 others, with 12 sustaining gunshot wounds. The incident, which occurred during homecoming weekend, has left the historically Black university and the local community in mourning.
Arrest Made in Connection with Shooting
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency confirmed that 25-year-old Jaquez Myrick, of Montgomery, was arrested as he attempted to leave the scene. Myrick was found in possession of a handgun modified with a machine gun conversion device, though he has not been charged with discharging the weapon in the incident. Currently, he faces federal charges for possessing the weapon.
Authorities have not indicated whether Myrick is a student at Tuskegee. Investigations continue to determine his involvement and any potential connections to the victims.
Fatality and Multiple Injuries
An 18-year-old male who was not a Tuskegee student was pronounced dead, while some of the injured victims are confirmed students of the university. Twelve individuals were treated for gunshot wounds, and four others suffered injuries not related to gunfire. Several of the wounded were hospitalized at nearby facilities, though their conditions have not been disclosed.
The identity of the deceased has been withheld pending an autopsy, and the FBI is assisting with the investigation, appealing to the public for video footage and tips to aid in the inquiry.
University Responds with Grief Counseling and Canceled Classes
In response to the tragedy, Tuskegee University announced that classes would be canceled Monday. Grief counselors will be available at the university chapel to support students, faculty, and staff. Norma Clayton, chairwoman of the university’s board of trustees, offered words of solidarity, emphasizing resilience amid difficult times.
Community Leaders and Students React
The impact of the shooting has shaken the small town of Tuskegee, home to around 9,000 residents. Patrick Mardis, Tuskegee city police chief, recounted the chaotic scene, noting that emergency responders faced difficulty accessing the area due to the crowd.
Amare’ Hardee, the student government association president, addressed the somber reality of the weekend’s events at Sunday’s homecoming convocation. “This senseless act of violence has touched each of us,” Hardee said, voicing a sentiment that many in the community share.
Pastor James Quincy III of the Tuskegee National Alumni Association spoke at the convocation, offering a spiritual perspective on the tragedy and emphasizing the importance of resilience and unity.
