Six Killed in Shooting Incident at Mississippi Walmart, Suspect in Custody
A tragic shooting incident unfolded at a Walmart store in West Point, Mississippi, resulting in the deaths of six individuals and leaving several others injured. The attack took place on a Thursday afternoon, sending shockwaves through the small community of approximately 10,000 residents. Authorities responded swiftly to emergency calls reporting an active shooter situation at the retail location on Highway 45 Alt. The suspected gunman, identified as 27-year-old Martez A. Montgomery, was taken into custody following a brief manhunt that lasted several hours. According to Lowndes County Sheriff Eddie D. Hawkins, the suspect was apprehended without incident in a wooded area near the town shortly after 8:00 PM. "He was found hiding under brush and surrendered peacefully," Sheriff Hawkins stated during a press conference late Thursday evening. Law enforcement officials have not yet released the identities of the victims, pending notification of next-of-kin. Emergency medical services transported multiple wounded individuals to local hospitals, including Baptist Memorial Hospital in Columbus and Och Regional Medical Center in Starkville. Hospital representatives confirmed that several patients were being treated for gunshot wounds, with conditions ranging from stable to critical. The shooting began inside the Walmart store around 2:30 PM local time, causing panic among shoppers and employees. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as people scrambled for cover and fled the building. "It was pure chaos," said one witness who wished to remain anonymous. "People were running and screaming in every direction. I just grabbed my kids and ran out the back door." Some employees reportedly barricaded themselves in stockrooms and offices until law enforcement secured the building. Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves issued a statement expressing condolences to the victims' families. "Our hearts break for the families of those who lost their lives in this senseless act of violence," Reeves said. "Mississippi stands with West Point during this incredibly difficult time. We are grateful to our law enforcement officers who responded quickly and professionally." The Walmart store remains closed as investigators process the crime scene. The FBI and ATF are assisting local authorities with the investigation. Preliminary information suggests the shooter acted alone, but a motive has not been established. Montgomery is currently being held at the Lowndes County Jail awaiting formal charges, which are expected to include multiple counts of murder and aggravated assault. This incident adds to the growing list of mass shootings in the United States. West Point Mayor William Florida declared a state of emergency for the city and scheduled a community prayer vigil for Friday evening. Counseling services have been made available to survivors and affected families through local mental health organizations and church groups. As the investigation continues, community members have begun organizing support efforts for the victims' families through local fundraising platforms. The incident has reignited discussions about public safety and gun violence prevention across the state and nation.
