A tragic evening at a Brandon drive-through has left a young mother dead. Although the community is still in shock, they have come together to provide support for her two small children.
25-year-old Kianna Jackson from Pearl, Mississippi was fatally shot on June 16 while in the drive-through lane of a McDonald’s located on Stribling Lane. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.
According to Brandon Police Chief Joseph French, officers arrived at the restaurant where the shooting happened shortly before 7:00 p.m. However, they discovered that Jackson had died from an apparent gunshot wound.
The suspect, 27-year-old Jhonterryes Dampier, was also found at the scene with a gunshot wound that appeared to be self-inflicted. It has been reported that Dampier may have turned the gun on himself shortly after shooting the victim.
The injured suspect was rushed to a hospital to receive treatment but was later pronounced dead. Authorities said the incident appeared to be domestic in nature, though the specific relationship between Jackson and Dampier has not been publicly detailed.
Mayor Butch Lee issued a statement calling the shooting “a horrible incident.” He also added, “It’s even more tragic when a domestic situation like this happens in front of children.”
Additionally, the owner and operator of the McDonald’s location, O’Farrall Management Group, issued a statement in response to the incident. They stated, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ family and loved ones. We’re providing support to our restaurant employees and will continue to assist law enforcement with their ongoing investigation.”
The Brandon police chief stated that the investigation is still ongoing and urged anyone with any information to step forward. He also emphasized that the incident seems to be an isolated event and reassured the community that there is no current threat to public safety.
Jackson’s death has spurred an outpouring of support from the community. A GoFundMe campaign organized on behalf of her family has raised more than $17,000 toward a $22,000 goal to help cover funeral expenses and provide for her surviving children.
The message on the fundraiser described her as “a cherished mother” and “a beloved daughter, sister and friend.” The family is preparing for a memorial service scheduled for June 27.
According to the fundraiser, any remaining funds after covering burial expenses will be placed into a trust for Jackson’s children, a five-year-old daughter and a three-year-old son. Jackson’s body is confirmed to have been transported to the State Medical Examiner’s Office, where an autopsy will be carried out.
