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Four charged in connection with JSU student’s 2023 death

By Jaylin Thornton Nov 7, 2025 | 12:12 PM

JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Agents with the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI) arrested four suspects in connection to the shooting death of Jaylen Burns, which occurred at Jackson State University (JSU) on October 15, 2023.

Bailey Martin, spokesperson for the Mississippi Department of Public Safety (MDPS), said authorities responded to reports of a shooting at University Pointe Apartments. When they arrived, they found Burns, a Jackson State student, suffering from a gunshot wound. He later died at a hospital.

MBI was requested to take over the investigation on November 9, 2023. Martin said MBI worked with multiple local and federal law enforcement agencies and witnesses to lead to the arrest of the following individuals:

  • Elisha Brown, 23 – Charged with accessory after the fact and hindering prosecution
  • Jamison Kelly, Jr., 23 – Charged with accessory after the fact
  • Marquis Scales, 24 – Charged with murder
  • Ziqua Amos, 21 – Charged with murder
  • Elisha Brown (Courtesy: MDPS)
  • Jamison Kelly, Jr. (Courtesy: MDPS)
  • Marquis Scales (Courtesy: MDPS)
  • Ziqua Amos (Courtesy: MDPS)
  • Jaylen Burns (Courtesy: Burns Family)

Martin said the U.S. Marshals Service assisted MBI in locating and arresting the suspects.

“This case is a testament to the persistence and professionalism of our state’s law enforcement community,” said MDPS Commissioner Sean Tindell. “The tireless work of our MBI agents and our partner agencies reflects their unwavering commitment to seeking justice for victims and their families. I am incredibly proud of the teamwork that led to these arrests.”

“This investigation took years of hard work and collaboration among multiple agencies,” said MBI Lt. Colonel James Herzog. “MBI extends its sincere gratitude to all law enforcement partners for their dedication and commitment to ensuring justice was served.”

According to Martin, MBI has been coordinating its investigation with the Hinds County District Attorney’s Office.

Officials with JSU said they were made aware of the arrests and are grateful for the work of the law enforcement agencies.

“JSU remains committed to fostering healing, safety and unity within our community, and we continue to cooperate with authorities. Our hearts are with the family, friends and classmates of Jaylen, a promising young man whose life was cut short far too soon,” JSU officials said.