Gulfport Police Charge Four in Fatal Teen Shooting
Four teenagers face murder and robbery charges following the shooting death of a 15-year-old on Commerce Street.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Property Crime
Gulfport police have arrested four teenagers in connection with the October 24, 2026, shooting death of 15-year-old Jonte Sirico Payton. Court documents allege the killing occurred during a planned armed robbery of a 16-year-old acquaintance.
Why it matters
The case highlights the fatal consequences of youth involvement in planned criminal activities. Investigators allege that Malachi Debar Williams coordinated the robbery, which ultimately resulted in the death of the teenage victim.
Elijah Markell Parham, Malachi Debar Williams, and Dennis Pritchett face capital murder and armed robbery charges, while Elliona Yari-Cheri Goffney faces charges of accessory after the fact. The suspects were apprehended following investigations into the 200 block of Commerce Street incident.
The players
Jonte Sirico Payton
The 15-year-old victim who died following a shooting on Commerce Street.
Elijah Markell Parham
A teenager charged with capital murder and armed robbery in connection with the case.
Malachi Debar Williams
A suspect who allegedly arranged the armed robbery and faces capital murder charges.
Dennis Pritchett
A suspect charged with capital murder and armed robbery related to the incident.
Elliona Yari-Cheri Goffney
A suspect charged with accessory after the fact for allegedly driving the other suspects from the scene.
The details
Surveillance footage captured a 2013 Ford Fusion fleeing the area without headlights shortly after the shooting. Police also recovered a 2002 GMC Sierra during the investigation, which led to drug possession charges.
Timeline
Jonte Sirico Payton was fatally shot at 2 a.m. on October 24, 2026.
Court documents detailing the homicide investigation were released on October 29, 2026.
Legal Context
This case follows the standard legal precedent where an underlying felony like armed robbery elevates a homicide charge to capital murder under Mississippi law. Prosecution of these charges reflects the state's stringent approach to crimes resulting in death during the commission of other felonies.
The discovery of a 2013 Ford Fusion and a 2002 GMC Sierra during the investigation suggests an active police presence in affected neighborhoods. Residents in the 1200 block of 29th Street and areas near Pass Road may remain subject to continued investigative scrutiny as the court process continues.
The takeaway
This incident serves as a stark warning about the dangerous intersection of adolescent social circles and illicit activities. Authorities emphasize the importance of monitoring youth interactions to prevent similar escalations from occurring in the community.
Further reading
For more information on local trends, visit Gulfport Property Crime.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Wlox.
