Zavionne Payne Obituary, Death Cause – Authorities in Gautier, Mississippi, are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred during a high school alumni homecoming gathering. The incident, which left one person dead and others injured, took place late Friday night and has prompted an active search for the suspect responsible.
According to the Gautier Police Department, gunfire erupted around 10 p.m. on September 19 along Dolphin Drive, near the roundabout, during a gathering of former students attending the Gautier High School alumni event. Officers were dispatched immediately following multiple reports of shots fired and arrived on the scene to find chaos and victims suffering from gunshot injuries.
The victim of the shooting has been identified by Jackson County Coroner Bruce Lynd as 22-year-old Zavionne Payne, a resident of Gautier. Payne was pronounced dead at the scene as a result of injuries sustained during the shooting. Authorities confirmed that he was attending the alumni homecoming event when the violence occurred, though they have not released further details regarding his involvement or position at the gathering.
In addition to Payne’s death, police confirmed that two other individuals were injured during the shooting. Both victims were transported to local hospitals for treatment, although officials have not provided details regarding the severity or specific nature of their injuries. The circumstances leading up to the shooting, including what may have triggered the violence, are still under investigation.
The Gautier Police Department has launched an active investigation into the incident and is seeking the public’s assistance in locating the individual or individuals responsible. Authorities have encouraged anyone with information about the shooting to come forward, emphasizing that tips from witnesses or those with knowledge of the event could be critical in apprehending the suspect and bringing justice to Payne and the other victims.
Residents and attendees of the event expressed shock at the sudden outbreak of violence during what was intended to be a celebratory occasion. Homecoming events, particularly alumni gatherings, are typically viewed as community celebrations where former students reunite, reconnect, and enjoy festivities. The shooting has deeply affected the local community, highlighting concerns about public safety during such events and the need for vigilance in preventing violent incidents.
Police are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby properties, gathering witness statements, and coordinating with other law enforcement agencies to identify leads. Investigators are also examining potential motives and relationships among those present at the event to determine whether the shooting was targeted or the result of an altercation that escalated into deadly violence.
In response to the shooting, Gautier authorities have emphasized the importance of community involvement in solving crimes. Individuals with relevant information are urged to contact the Gautier Police Department at 228-497-2486 or Crime Stoppers at 1-877-787-5898. Anonymous tips are also accepted, and police stressed that any information, no matter how small it may seem, could prove instrumental in identifying and apprehending the suspect.
The investigation remains ongoing, with law enforcement officials dedicating resources to ensure that all aspects of the incident are thoroughly examined. Community members and law enforcement alike are seeking answers to prevent similar tragedies from occurring at future gatherings and to restore a sense of safety in the area.
The fatal shooting of Zavionne Payne has left a profound impact on the Gautier community. Family, friends, and alumni are mourning the loss while authorities work tirelessly to identify those responsible. As the investigation progresses, updates are expected to provide further clarity regarding the incident, the condition of the injured victims, and efforts to bring the perpetrator to justice.
