Two suspects are in custody and charged with aggravated assault after a person was injured during a shooting at the South Mississippi Fair on Saturday.
According to the Jones County Sheriff’s Department, a “massive law enforcement and medical response was initiated” as shots rang out. Security at the fairgrounds quickly apprehended the suspects, who were identified Sunday as Akealeis McKenzie and Jalen Shade.
McKenzie and Shade, both 18 years old and residents of Laurel, were booked into the Jones County Adult Detention Facility and are awaiting their initial court appearances. Sheriff Joe Berlin confirmed to WDAM that the male victim, whose identity is not being released at this time, is in stable condition after being treated at a local hospital.
The South Mississippi Fair, which takes place annually in Laurel, was closed for the remainder of Saturday night. On Sunday, officials announced that “after careful consideration,” the fair would reopen and run through its planned end date of Saturday, Oct. 26.
“The safety and well-being of our community remains our top priority,” a statement from the South Mississippi Fair reads. “We are working closely with security and local law enforcement to ensure enhanced security measures for the remainder of the event. We are grateful and extend our gratitude to security, our local law enforcement and first responders for their swift action in keeping everyone safe.”
The Jones County Sheriff’s Department added that the investigation remains active.
