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Man arrested for mass shooting at Fayette Day Festival

By Kaitlin Howell Jun 17, 2025 | 2:55 PM

FAYETTE, Miss. (WJTV) – A Port Gibson was was arrested in connection to the mass shooting that occurred at the Fayette Day Festival.

Jefferson County Sheriff James E. Bailey said Courtez D’Henry Damper, 20, was arrested on June 16 and charged with murder. He was arraigned on June 17 and was denied bond. Damper is currently being held in the Jefferson County Jail.

The shooting occurred during the festival on May 31, 2025. Investigators said Rayshaude D. Hudson, 22, was killed during the shooting, and eight other people were injured.

“We want to assure the community that we are committed to seeking justice for the victims and their families,” said Bailey. “This arrest is a crucial step in holding those responsible accountable, but our work is far from over.”

  • Courtez D’Henry Damper (Courtesy: Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office)
  • Rayshaude D. Hudson (Courtesy: Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office)

The sheriff expects more arrests will be made. The investigation is being led by the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI) in collaboration with the Fayette Police Department and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Fayette Police Department at 601-786-3333, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office at 601-786-3403, MBI in Brookhaven at 601-515-4340, or Crime Stoppers at 1-888-442-5001.