Shooting in Biloxi Park Leaves Two Teenagers Injured

A community in Biloxi is condemning a bold act of violence that broke out at a park on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Two teenagers were shot at John Henry Beck Park Monday night, where just hours before, children were part of a community-wide project aimed at promoting unity. Sebrina May, Ward 2 resident, says, "It’s such an upset on Martin Luther King Day, for us to get out here and act the way that we did. I’m just praying for a better day."

Monday seemed like a perfect day, as the community came together to freshen up John Henry Beck Park. Kids armed with rakes worked to restore the local garden, while others played, but just hours later, gunshots turned Dr. King’s dream into a nightmare, hospitalizing two teenage girls. Residents say the violence does not define them. Felix Gines, Biloxi City Councilman for Ward 2, says, "We want people to stand up at this time, stand up and show your strength. Come on back to the park because it is a safe community."

Witnesses say the shooting started after a group fight broke out between several individuals who they did not recognize from the neighborhood. May also says, "John Henry Beck Park is not what it’s made out to be. It is a safe environment and it is a place where you can bring your children."

Monday’s community garden project brought hope and life back to John Henry Beck Park, but the night’s shooting has left it all but abandoned and hurt the morale of locals. Gines also says, "Having someone come out here and destroy all that was done, it’s just kind of a downer."

Police are still investigating the shooting, and are working several leads, but they are asking for anyone with any information to call them. In the meantime, the residents of Ward 2 will continue to pick up the pieces. May closes, "It is people that really care about this community, it’s not all a waste. We grew up in this park, it’s all we know. It’s history to us, and we want this park to keep making the good history and not the stuff that’s going on these days."

If you have any information about this crime, please call Mississippi Crime Stoppers at 1-877-787-5898. You don’t have to leave your name if you wish to remain anonymous.