TUNICA COUNTY, MS – July 14, 2025 — Authorities in Tunica County, Mississippi, are piecing together the tragic events surrounding a deadly shooting that claimed the life of Nykeria Jude, 30, and left two others critically injured. The incident, which occurred on Friday, July 11, has since led to the discovery of the suspected gunman’s body.
According to the Tunica County Sheriff’s Office, the shooting unfolded at approximately 7:06 p.m. on Soleil Drive in Robinsonville. Deputies responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, they found three victims suffering from gunshot wounds, including Jude, who was critically injured and later pronounced dead at the scene.
The Shooting: A Violent Incident on Soleil Drive
The shooting occurred in an otherwise quiet residential neighborhood, with Nykeria Jude being the first victim identified. She was fatally shot and died from her injuries on-site. In addition to Jude, a 24-year-old man and a 6-year-old girl were also shot. Both were airlifted to nearby regional trauma centers for advanced medical care, though their current conditions have not been publicly updated.
Sheriff’s deputies immediately began an investigation into the triple shooting, quickly identifying Markell Braxton, 41, of Robinsonville, as the primary suspect in the incident. Following the identification, a manhunt ensued over the weekend, with local authorities receiving assistance from state and federal agencies.
Markell Braxton’s Death: Body Found in Wooded Area
The search for Markell Braxton ended on Monday afternoon, July 14, when law enforcement discovered a body in a wooded area behind homes near Soleil Drive. Based on preliminary evidence, authorities suspect the remains belong to Braxton, though official confirmation is pending laboratory analysis.
The body was transported to a state crime lab for an autopsy and forensic testing, which will determine the identity and cause of death. Authorities have not yet disclosed how long the body may have been in the woods, nor whether any weapon was recovered at the scene. Investigators are also working to determine whether Braxton’s death was a result of suicide or if foul play was involved.
“We’re still gathering all the facts, but we are committed to getting answers for the family and the community,” said Sheriff Joe Hamilton. “We will continue to piece together the timeline and the events leading to this tragedy.”
The Investigation: Reconstructing the Timeline of Events
Detectives from the Tunica County Sheriff’s Office are actively working to reconstruct the sequence of events leading up to the shooting. They are focusing on key questions: what transpired before the gunfire erupted, how Markell Braxton escaped from the scene, and what caused him to end up in the woods.
Authorities are collecting and reviewing all available evidence, including shell casings, surveillance footage, and eyewitness accounts, to establish a clear narrative. As the investigation progresses, law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information about the shooting or any suspicious activity in the area between July 11 and July 14 to come forward.
“If anyone saw something, no matter how small it may seem, it could be crucial in solving this case,” said Detective Lt. Steve Forman. “We encourage witnesses to help us with the investigation.”
The Victims: Nykeria Jude and the Injured
The death of Nykeria Jude, a 30-year-old woman, has left her family and the community in deep mourning. She is remembered by friends and loved ones as a kind-hearted and generous individual, known for her smile and compassion. Her loss is felt not only by those closest to her but by the entire Robinsonville area.
The 24-year-old man and 6-year-old girl who were also injured in the shooting are expected to survive, though details about their condition have not been made public. Their families are deeply concerned about the emotional and physical toll this violence will have on their lives.
Community Reaction: Shock and Grief
The violent shooting in the otherwise quiet Robinsonville neighborhood has stunned residents. Many community members have expressed shock and sadness at the senseless loss of life and the trauma inflicted on those involved. The presence of a 6-year-old child among the victims has particularly shaken the community, with many voicing concerns about the effects of such violence on young children and families.
Ongoing Investigation: Seeking Justice for the Victims
The investigation into the shooting remains active, and law enforcement officials are working diligently to determine the full circumstances of the incident. Although Markell Braxton is presumed dead, the investigation will continue, especially as authorities work to confirm his cause of death and determine any additional suspects or motives.
The Tunica County Sheriff’s Office has vowed to continue its efforts to bring closure to the families of the victims and to seek justice for Nykeria Jude and the others who were harmed.