On the early morning of Wednesday, November 6, 2024, the Battles community in Wayne County, Mississippi, lost a cherished member. Freddie James Binder Jr., a 65-year-old Black/African American male known affectionately as 'Buck,' was killed in a drive-by shooting in Buckatunna. The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation is leading the inquiry into his death. As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting, and authorities have not publicly identified any suspects.
The investigation remains ongoing as law enforcement officials encourage anyone with information to come forward.
Born in Waynesboro, Mississippi, on May 10, 1959, Binder was a well-respected figure in his community. He graduated from Buckatunna High School, where he earned a football scholarship to Jones County Junior College. There, he pursued a degree in Auto Mechanics. He later became a certified commercial truck driver and served his community as a volunteer firefighter in the Battles Community. Binder was a man of faith, being a member of the True Praise Living Church of God and a frequent visitor to Mt. Nebo Missionary Baptist Church with his late wife, Faye Nell.
Freddie Binder Jr. was remembered as a pillar of support and a father figure to many young people in the area. Known for his generosity, he was always ready to offer a helping hand, whether through monetary, emotional, or moral support. He was an upstanding member of his community who mentored local youth, visited the sick, and volunteered whenever needed. His loss has been deeply felt by his children, grandchildren, siblings, and numerous other relatives and friends who gathered to honor his memory at funeral services held at Mt. Nebo Baptist Church.
