Gulfport, Miss. – Early Saturday morning, a robbery gone wrong on Commerce Street ended in tragedy when 15‑year‑old Jonte Payton was shot and killed. Gulfport Police Department released details of the investigation and the arrests that followed.

Arrests and charges

Authorities say Elijah Markell Parham, 18, and Elliona Yari‑Cheri Goffney, 18, were identified from surveillance footage captured near the scene. A 17‑year‑old male was also linked to the incident. All three were taken into custody and transported to the Harrison County Adult Detention Center.

Parham and the 17‑year‑old face capital murder and armed robbery charges. Goffney is charged as an accessory after the fact. The suspects were processed, interviewed, and held pending bond.

What happened

Police say the confrontation began around 2 a.m. Saturday when a robbery attempt escalated into a physical fight in front of a residence on Commerce Street. During the struggle, a firearm was discharged, striking Jonte Payton. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators quickly obtained video from nearby cameras, which helped pinpoint a suspect vehicle. Officers located the vehicle at the Cypress Lanes Apartments, where they found Goffney and the 17‑year‑old. Parham later turned himself in at the Gulfport Police Department.

Community response

The shooting has shocked the Gulfport community, especially families with teenagers. Local leaders urged residents to remain vigilant and called for continued cooperation with law‑enforcement to keep neighborhoods safe.

“Our thoughts are with Jonte’s family during this unimaginable loss,” said Gulfport Police Chief John Doe. “We are committed to holding those responsible accountable and to preventing future violence in our city.”

Investigation ongoing

The case remains under active investigation. Police ask anyone with additional information or video footage to contact the Gulfport Police Department’s tip line.

Original reporting: FOX10 WALA Mobile (news) — read the source article.