Tragic Shooting in Oktibbeha County Claims Lives of Jordan Mitchell, 21, and Kaiden Evans, 18; Community Grieves and Demands Justice
June 29, 2025, when a shooting claimed the lives of two young men in a tragic incident that has left the tight-knit community of Oktibbeha County in a state of profound shock and sorrow. According to Deputy Coroner Billy Miller, the victims have been identified as Jordan Mitchell, 21, and Kaiden Evans, 18, both residents of the area.
The deadly shooting occurred around 2:30 a.m. in a residential neighborhood on the outskirts of Starkville, though authorities have not yet released the specific location due to the ongoing nature of the investigation. Local law enforcement officers responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire, and upon arrival, they discovered the two young men suffering from life-threatening injuries.
Despite efforts by first responders, both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
The Oktibbeha County Sheriff’s Office has launched a full-scale homicide investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. While no suspects have been publicly named or apprehended, authorities confirmed that they are actively pursuing leads and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses.
“This is a tragic and senseless loss of two young lives,” said Sheriff Mark Sanders at a press briefing Sunday afternoon. “We understand the community is hurting, and we are doing everything in our power to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.”
As the investigation continues, friends, family members, and neighbors have come together in collective mourning, remembering Jordan and Kaiden not just as victims of violence, but as vibrant young men whose lives were filled with promise.
Remembering Jordan Mitchell
Jordan Mitchell, 21, was known for his calm demeanor, creative spirit, and passion for music. A former student at East Oktibbeha High School, Jordan had dreams of becoming a music producer and had recently begun working on his first independent mixtape. Friends described him as loyal, kind-hearted, and deeply loved by all who knew him.
“He was always the peacemaker,” said longtime friend Devonte Harris. “Jordan had this quiet strength. He stayed out of trouble, worked hard, and wanted something better for his future.”
Jordan was also a mentor to local teens in his neighborhood, often volunteering at after-school programs to help younger kids stay focused and inspired. His loss has hit the community especially hard, as many looked to him as a symbol of hope and resilience.
Honoring Kaiden Evans
Kaiden Evans, just 18 years old, had recently graduated from Starkville High School in May. Known for his infectious smile and quick wit, Kaiden was a talented athlete who played on the school’s basketball team. He had plans to attend Holmes Community College in the fall to study kinesiology, hoping to one day become a physical therapist.
“He was full of life,” said his cousin, Ashley Greer. “He had big dreams, and he was just getting started. Our hearts are shattered.”
Kaiden had a close-knit circle of friends and was widely loved for his sense of humor, his humility, and his constant encouragement of others. His teachers remembered him as a respectful, driven student with a bright future ahead.
A Community in Mourning
As the news of their deaths spread, grief swept through Oktibbeha County. A candlelight vigil was held Sunday evening near the site of the shooting, where hundreds of mourners gathered to honor Jordan and Kaiden’s memory. The vigil included heartfelt speeches, a moment of silence, and a balloon release symbolizing hope and remembrance.
Local clergy, including Pastor Clarence Dunn of Rising Sun Missionary Baptist Church, led the community in prayer.
“These young men were loved. They mattered,” Pastor Dunn said. “Their lives were cut short by violence that has no place here. We must come together as a community to stop this cycle and support our youth before more families have to bury their sons.”
The shooting has prompted renewed calls for community-led violence prevention initiatives, greater youth outreach, and increased neighborhood patrols. City leaders have vowed to support families and residents impacted by the tragedy and to work with law enforcement to bring justice for Jordan and Kaiden.
Moving Forward with Heavy Hearts
Funeral arrangements for both young men are currently being planned, and community members have launched GoFundMe pages to help their families cover burial costs. In the face of tragedy, Oktibbeha County is showing remarkable unity and resilience—but the pain remains raw.
As the investigation moves forward, officials are urging anyone with information related to the shooting to contact the Oktibbeha County Sheriff’s Office or submit anonymous tips to Golden Triangle Crime Stoppers.
In the words of one mourner at Sunday’s vigil:
“They were too young, too good, and too full of life to be gone. May we never forget Jordan Mitchell and Kaiden Evans, and may their names be a call for peace.