BATESVILLE, MS – The death of 13-year-old Kazarius Gardner in a drive-by shooting has stunned Batesville, Mississippi, leading to the arrest of four individuals, including three minors. The youngest suspect, just 15, faces adult charges under state law due to the severity of the crime.
The tragic incident occurred while Kazarius was in a car with his family. Although authorities suspect gang involvement, they believe Kazarius was not the intended target. Those apprehended include 20-year-old Cadarius Frost and teenagers aged 17, 16, and 15. Mississippi law requires anyone 13 or older charged with a firearm-related murder to be tried as an adult.
The community is grappling with the implications of the crime and the ages of those involved. Concerns about parenting and societal influences on youth behavior have been raised by local residents.
Kazarius was a student at North Panola County school, where his positive spirit and dedication to academics and sports were well recognized. The school district released a statement honoring his memory and acknowledging the impact of his loss on the school community.
All suspects are held on $500,000 bonds and share the same public defender. The incident has reignited discussions about youth violence and the societal factors contributing to such acts.
Batesville police continue their investigation, seeking additional information to bring closure to the case. The community remains hopeful for justice and is calling for preventive measures to address the root causes of violent behavior among youths.