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16-year-old killed in Gulfport after argument over vape pen

By Kristopher White Feb 13, 2024 | 3:29 PM

GULFPORT, Miss. (WJTV) – A 16-year-old has died after an argument over the sale of a vape pen, according to Gulfport police.

Investigators said police responded to Kenwood Drive around 2:15 a.m. on February 12 after receiving a call about a shooting. They located the body of 16-year-old Zaelyn Braxton in the doorway of a home.

During the investigation, detectives learned 18-year-old Elijah Eckford had traveled to Braxton’s location. Officers said the two argued about the sale of a vape pen before Eckford shot Braxton and fled the scene.

Gulfport police said the driver of the suspects’ vehicle was identified as 21-year-old Tai’shawn Holloway. Another occupant was identified as 21-year-old Christopher Fletcher.

Police said Holloway took Eckford to the location on Kenwood Drive, waited for him until he heard the gunshots, picked Eckford up from the scene and fled the area.

Eckford has been charged with one count of second degree murder. Holloway has been charged with one count of accessory after the fact. Fletcher has been charged with one count of possession of marijuana.

The three suspects are being held in the Harrison County Adult Detention Center until their bonds have been set by a judge.

Anyone with information about the shooting can contact Gulfport police at 228-868-5959 or Mississippi Coast Crime Stoppers at 877-787-5898.