Gautier Police, Mayor respond following recent deadly incidents across city
GAUTIER, Miss. (WXXV) — It has been a tragic month for the city of Gautier, as multiple incidents have left several young residents dead. The most recent being two children – three and five years old – who drowned at a home on Three Oaks Drive.
Monday marked the third tragic incident for the city in just the last few weeks. A 2-year-old and 5-year-old were pronounced dead after being found unresponsive near a swimming pool on Three Oaks Drive on Monday evening.
Their mother, 36-year-old Amber Goldman, was taken into custody and charged with possession of a controlled substance and possession of paraphernalia. Police say additional charges are pending, but for now, she is being held without bond at the Jackson County Jail.
On Saturday, October 18, 18-year-old Arreyon Lett was shot and killed at the College Villa Apartments on Ladnier Road. Another 18-year-old, along with a 15-year-old were also injured in the shooting, and it was later confirmed that a 31-year-old was struck by a stray bullet while in their nearby apartment.
Three teens identified as 18-year-old Camerson Duckworth, a 15-year-old from Moss Point and a 16-year-old from Gautier have been arrested and charged with first-degree murder in connection with the deadly incident.
This incident has highlighted youth gun violence and called into question what can be done to avoid further tragedies such as this one.
Mayor Casey Vaughan also made a statement on social media following the deadly shooting. He says in short, “It is time for parents and guardians to take active responsibility for their children’s actions and wellbeing… we must also hold the parents accountable… our children need guidance, structure, and community engagement to stay on the right path…”
On September 19, 22-year-old Zavionne Payne tragically lost his life during a shooting at the Gautier High Alumni Homecoming event held at the roundabout on Dolphin Drive. A month later, police say there have been no arrests and no suspects identified in the shooting.
Chief Bever says though these tragic incidents occurred in a short time span, none of them are connected, but if anyone has information, to call the Gautier Police Department.
WXXV received a statement from the city regarding the recent uptick in these events. They said, in part, “The City of Gautier extends our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones affected by the recent tragedies that have taken place in our community… and the past month has been heartbreaking for our city, and we recognize the pain felt throughout our community. Our police, fire, and city staff remain committed to protecting our community.”
