Crime
15-Year-Old Jonte Payton Tragically Killed in Gulfport, Mississippi; Three Arrested
GULFPORT, MISSISSIPPI โ A heartbreaking tragedy has claimed the life of 15-year-old Jonte Payton, a young boy whose life was cut short far too soon. ๐๐๏ธ His death has left a family grieving an unimaginable loss and a community mourning a young life that deserved so many more years, opportunities, and memories.
According to police, the fatal incident occurred around 2 a.m. early Saturday morning on Commerce Street in Gulfport, Mississippi. Investigators say the incident reportedly began with an attempted robbery and a confrontation outside a residence before escalating into gunfire. Tragically, the encounter ended with Jonte losing his life at just 15 years old.
Authorities have arrested three individuals in connection with the fatal shooting:
According to investigators, surveillance footage played a key role in the investigation. Police reportedly used the footage to identify and track a vehicle connected to the incident to Cypress Lanes Apartments, where two individuals were arrested. Parham later turned himself in to authorities.
Investigators have charged Parham and the 17-year-old juvenile with capital murder and armed robbery. Goffney faces a charge of accessory after the fact in connection with the case.
The investigation highlights the serious consequences of violence and the devastating impact it can have on families and entire communities. The charges are allegations, and the defendants are entitled to due process as the legal proceedings move forward.
A Young Life Lost Too Soon
Beyond the arrests, criminal charges, and ongoing investigation is a devastating human loss. Jonte Payton was only 15 years old โ an age when life should be filled with dreams, friendships, family moments, and hopes for the future.
Instead, his family and loved ones are left facing the painful reality of a life taken far too soon. No words can fully express the grief of losing a child, and no family should have to endure such heartbreaking circumstances.
As the Gulfport community reflects on this tragedy, the loss of Jonte serves as a painful reminder of how quickly violence can change lives forever. Behind every headline is a family, a story, and a young person whose future mattered.
๐ค May Jonte Payton rest in eternal peace. May his family, friends, and everyone who loved him find strength, comfort, and support during this incredibly difficult time. May his memory live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and may his loved ones receive the prayers and compassion they need as they navigate this unimaginable loss. ๐๐๏ธ
HALIFAX COUNTY, N.C. โ Tony Lee Creekmore was found dead from an apparent gunshot wound early Sunday, October 25, after deputies responded to a reported forced entry at a residence near Roanoke Rapids, authorities said.
According to the available information, Halifax County deputies received a call shortly before 4 a.m. about a man banging on the door of a home on Coleus Lane. The caller identified the man as Creekmore during the 911 call.
The situation reportedly escalated when the caller later told dispatchers that Creekmore had forced his way inside the residence. When deputies arrived, they found Creekmore dead from an apparent gunshot wound.
The Halifax County Sheriffโs Office is investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Authorities have not announced any criminal charges.
The incident began in the early hours of Sunday morning when a caller contacted emergency services to report a man banging on the door of a residence on Coleus Lane in the Roanoke Rapids area.
The call came in shortly before 4 a.m. During the conversation with dispatchers, the caller identified the man as Tony Lee Creekmore.
The caller later reported that Creekmore had forced his way into the home. Deputies responded to the address to investigate the reported entry and the developing situation.
Authorities have not released further details about what happened between the reported forced entry and the deputiesโ arrival.
When deputies reached the home, they found Creekmore dead from what authorities described as an apparent gunshot wound.
Officials have not provided additional information about the exact circumstances of the shooting. The available report also does not identify who fired the shot or explain whether anyone else was inside the residence at the time.
Authorities have not released further details about the events leading up to Creekmoreโs death.
Detectives with the Halifax County Sheriffโs Office are investigating the incident to establish what happened at the Coleus Lane residence.
Investigators are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the reported forced entry and the fatal shooting. Officials have not announced any criminal charges in connection with the case.
The investigation remains ongoing, and further details may be released as authorities gather additional information.