Teen Critically Wounded After Crenshaw Parade Shooting, Investigation Underway

A 13 year old juvenile was critically wounded on Dec. 9 after a Christmas parade in Crenshaw, Panola County, local authorities reported. Deputies responding shortly before midnight found the child with a gunshot wound to the head. The juvenile was airlifted to a Memphis area medical facility and listed in critical condition in preliminary reports. Investigators with the Panola County Sheriff’s Office are working to determine the circumstances and motive.

The shooting reverberates across neighboring communities including Lafayette County. Crenshaw is part of the same regional fabric, and families here share concerns about the safety of children at community events. The timing after a holiday parade amplifies fears about public gatherings and the vulnerability of young people in spaces that are meant to be safe and celebratory.

From a public health perspective the incident highlights several urgent issues for rural counties. Severe pediatric trauma requires rapid transport and access to specialized care, which in many parts of Mississippi means long ground times and reliance on air transport to tertiary hospitals in larger cities. That reliance strains emergency systems and can amplify inequities for families without resources. In addition the psychological fallout for witnesses, family members and broader community networks can be profound, increasing demand for mental health support at a time when local services are often limited.

The shooting also raises questions about prevention, youth safety and coordinated responses across county lines. Law enforcement is asking anyone with information to contact Panola County Crime Stoppers at 662 209 2011. Confidential tips may be crucial as investigators build a timeline and piece together motive.

Local leaders and health providers will need to consider both immediate needs and longer term investments in trauma care, mental health services and violence prevention programs. For now families and neighbors in Lafayette County and surrounding communities are urged to look out for one another, to share any relevant information with investigators, and to support the young person and family affected as the investigation continues.