Mississippi authorities investigate police shooting that killed 1-year-old child
Mississippi authorities are investigating a police shooting that left a 1-year-old child dead and another person critically injured in Senatobia.
(NBC)- Mississippi authorities are investigating a police shooting that left a 1-year-old child dead and another person critically injured in Senatobia.
The shooting happened Sunday in a Walmart parking lot after officers responded to a reported shoplifting incident involving two adults and a child.
Investigators say the suspects, identified as the child’s mother and a friend, attempted to flee the scene in a vehicle. Authorities allege the vehicle drove toward and nearly struck an officer.
Police say another officer then opened fire on the vehicle.
The aftermath left shattered glass and bullet holes visible in the vehicle involved.
According to investigators, the child, identified as 1-year-old Kohen Wiley, was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. One of the adults suffered critical injuries.
No officers were injured during the incident.
The shooting has sparked outrage among family members, who are demanding answers.
“I’m more angry, because the situation that took place really was unnecessary, from what I’m hearing of what happened,” said Lasandra Williams, the child’s grandmother.
A witness told reporters one of the adults was carrying the child while the other was carrying a box of diapers before the shooting occurred.
“Policeman shot, opened fire in a public setting, over allegedly some Pampers,” said Licole Wiley, the child’s grandmother and sister of the critically injured woman.
Family members say they are devastated by the loss.
“I don’t know anything right now. My grandson gone. I just want justice,” said Kohen’s grandfather, Carlos Haynes.
The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation has taken over the investigation and will determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Authorities have not released additional information as the investigation continues.
