Jackson shooting at Hideaway venue triggers police review of promoters and security

The Jackson Police Department is expanding its inquiry into a fatal shooting at a local venue to include the financial and operational practices of the event organizers. Two people were killed and six others were injured when masked gunmen entered a Halloween party over the weekend. All eight victims were under the age of 21. One of those killed was a student at Jackson State University.

Police Chief RaShall Brackney stated that the department has contacted the event promoters and will meet with them to discuss the incident. She identified a pattern of irresponsibility in the venue's history. This was the second shooting at the Hideaway this year. A separate shooting also occurred at another event sponsored by the same promoter.

The investigation will examine security arrangements, access control, contracts, and licensing requirements. Brackney said the police will review the conduct of promoters, security personnel, and business operators. The department is also bringing in the FBI to assist with the review of surveillance video from the scene.

The Hideaway is located in the 5100 block of I-55 North Frontage Road. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene. At least one of the injured parties was also enrolled at Jackson State University. The university canceled undergraduate classes for Monday and Tuesday in response to the loss. Counseling services are now available to students, faculty, and staff through several campus resources.

Two Jackson State University students who attended the party left around 12:30, roughly 30 minutes before the shooting. They described matching costumes and a positive atmosphere before they departed. One student, identified as Francillon, noted that she is from Boston and that friends back home learned of the tragedy despite not following local news. The pair expressed disbelief at their proximity to the event.

Ewin, another student, said they knew one of the victims who was rushed to the hospital. The students described a somber mood on campus in the hours following the shooting. They are currently on edge and questioning their safety when going out in the future. One student cited survivor's guilt, noting that she has the opportunity to advocate for those who did not survive.

Administrative and academic offices at the university remain open. The Lottie W. Thornton Early Childhood Center is also in operation. Students with internship or clinical obligations are expected to meet attendance requirements. Those who cannot attend are instructed to contact their assigned instructor directly.