In Shannon, Mississippi, a tragic incident unfolded when a police officer fatally shot a suspect who had just killed his girlfriend in a local store. The event, which occurred on a Thursday morning, has been described as a domestic violence case.
According to Lee County Sheriff Jim Johnson, the victim, Shaharah Coggins, 38, entered Grigg’s Store on Romie Hill Avenue seeking refuge. She informed those present that her boyfriend, Kentorrey Sims, 32, was following her and intended to harm her, as reported by the Daily Journal. Witnesses confirmed that Sims entered the crowded store and, despite the woman taking cover behind an on-duty Shannon police officer, he reached over the officer and fired multiple shots, fatally wounding Coggins.
Sheriff Johnson stated that the officer then drew his weapon and fatally shot Sims. Both Coggins and Sims were pronounced dead at the scene. Their bodies were sent to the state crime lab in Pearl for autopsies, according to Lee County Coroner Carolyn Green.
Grigg’s Store, a popular local spot for morning coffee and breakfast, is located on Romie Hill Avenue (Highway 245), approximately 1,000 feet south of Shannon Elementary School. The store was open and filled with patrons at the time of the shooting. Fortunately, no other individuals in the store sustained injuries.
News of the incident spread rapidly, drawing a large crowd outside the store, including family members of both the deceased. The situation became emotionally charged, leading to a brief altercation that required additional officers to be called to the scene.
Shannon Police Chief Desiree Kershner confirmed that the officer involved in the officer involved shooting has been placed on paid administrative leave, which is standard procedure pending the outcome of the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI) investigation. “We’re letting MBI handle the case,” Kershner said. She also noted that the department has sufficient staffing to manage the situation, with assistance available from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office if needed. This incident highlights the dangers officers face, even while attempting to protect citizens.
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