Meridian Police Dept. investigates Oct. 23 shooting death

The Meridian Police Department is investigating after a young man was killed in a shooting incident that took place over the weekend on Friday, October 23.

21-year-old Kenneth Barrett, has been arrested in connection with the incident, and has been charged with murder in regard to the shooting death of 25-year-old Charquez Mercer. The shooting incident occurred on 16th Avenue at 23rd Street, where the victim was found shot in the driver’s seat of his vehicle. It was confirmed that there were 3 people in the vehicle at the time of the incident, the victim, the suspect, Kenneth Barrett, and a juvenile. A weapon was recovered on the scene, but it has not yet been determined if it is the gun that was used in the incident.

“There are going to be subsequent charges that are going to be coming for any other individuals that took part or knew about it, but didn’t come forward. So, all person’s or parties involved that had anything to do with the demise of Mr. Mercer will be charged formally, as soon as the evidence presents itself,” said Rochester Anderson, Lead Detective.

Kenneth Barrett’s preliminary hearing is scheduled to be held at 12pm on Thursday, October 29.

The Meridian Police Department is asking that if anyone has information regarding this incident, to contact them or East Mississippi Crimestoppers to give an anonymous tip.