JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Jackson police are searching for suspects in connection to two separate homicides that occurred within eight hours of each other.

The body Avion Donelson, 17, was discovered on Memphis Street on Wednesday, March 5. He had been shot multiple times.

Police said about eight hours later, Jakendrick Bass, 21, was shot and killed in the parking lot of Sunset Plaza Apartments.

“We have a issue with gun violence, gang activity, drug activity, and, you know, individuals who do not know how to deal with conflict, individuals who do not know how to mitigate conflict without resorting to gun violence, individuals who have no value for human life. That compounds the issue. Then you add another layer that they’re not emotionally intelligent or emotionally mature, when you’re talking about young kids that are committing these acts of violence in our communities,” said Jackson Police Chief Joseph Wade.

There has been an increase in police presence across the capital city, according to Wade. However, he said police numbers alone will not curb gun violence.

“You’re talking about social issues. When you’re talking about some of the issues that we’re facing in the city of Jackson, you’re not going to over police your way out of these issues. The Jackson Police Department, as of today, is standing at around 257, right at 260 police officers. Four more that I’m going to be hiring very soon that are in the process, which would push us back to 261. Capitol has around 150. So, you have about 410 officers right here in the metro area. Right? My understanding they’re responsible for eight square miles. I’m responsible for 111 miles,” the police chief said.

According to JPD, officers have solved 80% of homicide cases reported since January 1, 2025.

Anyone with information about the recent homicides can contact JPD at 601-960-1234 or Crime Stoppers at 601-355-TIPS (8477).