An investigation is underway in Senatobia, Mississippi, after an officer-involved shooting outside a Walmart store resulted in the death of a 1-year-old child and left another adult critically injured, a tragedy that has deeply impacted the local community.

The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI) is leading the case in cooperation with local law enforcement agencies as officials work to determine exactly what happened during the incident.

The shooting occurred Sunday afternoon at a Walmart on U.S. Highway 51. Officers had initially responded to a report of suspected shoplifting inside the store.

According to preliminary information, officers encountered two adults and a young child as they exited the store and entered a vehicle in the parking lot. Authorities said officers attempted to intervene, but the situation escalated when the vehicle reportedly moved in a manner that officers believed posed a threat.

At least one officer then discharged a firearm toward the vehicle. The vehicle subsequently left the parking lot and traveled a short distance before arriving at a nearby hospital.

Medical personnel attempted emergency treatment, but the 1-year-old child, identified by family members as Kohen Wiley, was later pronounced ᴅᴇᴀᴅ. Another adult occupant suffered critical injuries and remains under medical care.

Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage, witness statements, body camera recordings, dash camera footage, and forensic evidence to establish a clear and accurate timeline of events.

Officials have emphasized that the investigation remains in its early stages and that no conclusions will be reached until all evidence has been thoroughly examined.

Kohen Wiley’s family has spoken publicly about their grief, saying they are struggling to understand how a response to a shoplifting call escalated into a fatal incident involving a child.

Relatives have called for transparency and a full explanation of the decisions made during the encounter. They say their priority is to obtain answers, accountability, and a clearer understanding of the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Witnesses at the Walmart parking lot described a scene of confusion and panic as officers moved quickly through the area before gunsH๏τs were heard. Authorities noted that these accounts are still being verified and will be compared with physical evidence and video footage.

Investigators confirmed that surveillance cameras from the Walmart property and surrounding areas are being carefully reviewed. Body-worn camera footage and recordings from responding officers are also expected to play a key role in reconstructing the sequence of events.

The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation said its role is to conduct a thorough and independent review to ensure all evidence is properly evaluated.

Community members in Senatobia have expressed sadness and concern following the incident, with many calling for a transparent investigation and a clear explanation of how events unfolded.

Officials have urged the public to remain patient while investigators complete their work, noting that cases involving multiple agencies require time and careful analysis.

As the investigation continues, Kohen Wiley’s family remains focused on seeking answers and ensuring that every aspect of the incident is fully examined. Authorities have stated that future updates will be released as verified information becomes available and that all findings will be based on evidence rather than speculation.