A joyous family gathering to celebrate a new life turned into a scene of tragedy at Roosevelt State Park in Morton, Mississippi, on Sunday, June 22, 2025. Jetavion Markenyus Johnson, an 18-year-old male from Newton, was fatally shot during a gender reveal party. The incident occurred in the late afternoon, around 5:15 p.m., near the Alfreda-Harris Lodge and pool area within the park.
Witnesses described a festive atmosphere that quickly descended into panic when an argument broke out between Johnson and another teenager. The verbal confrontation escalated, leading to gunfire. Johnson was struck multiple times, including in the abdomen. He was transported by a personal vehicle to Scott Regional Hospital in Morton, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead. The Scott County Coroner's office later confirmed his identity.
In the days following the shooting, the Scott County Sheriff's Office, in conjunction with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, launched an investigation. The authorities treated it as an isolated incident, assuring the public that there was no broader threat. Their investigation quickly led to a suspect.
Within two days of the incident, authorities arrested 18-year-old Anthony Boyd of Pelahatchie and charged him with murder in connection with Johnson's death. Officials stated that the shooting stemmed from the argument that had erupted between the two young men at the party. The investigation was reported to be ongoing as of late June 2025, as law enforcement continued to process evidence and interview additional witnesses.
