×

Man wanted for killing Yazoo City woman found dead

By Cameron Smith Sep 23, 2025 | 11:11 AM

UPDATE:

YAZOO CITY, Miss. (WJTV) – Yazoo City Police Chief Terry Gann said the man who was wanted for killing a woman at an apartment complex has died.

Gann said Erwin Barnes was found deceased at a location on U.S. 49 near Pocahontas. Investigators believe Barnes shot himself.

  • Hinds County Rest Area on U.S. 49 near Pocahontas on Sept. 23, 2025 (WJTV)
  • Hinds County Rest Area on U.S. 49 near Pocahontas on Sept. 23, 2025 (WJTV)

Family and friends of the victim, Kenlanda Burns, said they’re devastated.

“I was going through messages this morning and looking at what she just reached out and just said. I just want you to know that I love you very much. It is very hard. It is very hard for so many reasons,” said SirJohnathan Rucker, Burns’ cousin.

Rucker said there were some disagreements between Burns and Barnes before the shooting occurred. He said if authorities addressed the situation in the past, the shooting could have been avoided.

Kenlanda Burns (Courtesy: Yazoo City Municipal School District)

The Yazoo City Municipal School District released the following statement about the death of Burns.

The Yazoo City Municipal School District is deeply saddened to share the passing of one of our beloved team members, Kenlanda Burns, a dedicated cafeteria employee who served our students with care and kindness.

She was a familiar and friendly face to so many of our students and staff, always offering a warm smile and a helping hand. Ms. Burns played an important role in our school community, and her presence will be greatly missed.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Support services are available to students and staff during this time of loss.

Yazoo City Municipal School District

YAZOO CITY, Miss. (WJTV) – Yazoo City police are searching for a man after a woman was shot and killed.

The shooting occurred at Willow Wood Apartments on Grady Avenue on September 23, 2025. Police responded to the scene around 6:30 a.m. When officers arrived, they found Kenlanda Burns deceased at the scene.

According to Yazoo City Police Chief Terry Gann, officers with the police department and deputies with the Yazoo County Sheriff’s Office are conducting a manhunt for the suspect, Erwin Barnes.

Barnes is considered to be armed and dangerous. He is 6’11” and weighs 158 pounds.

Erwin Barnes (Courtesy: Yazoo County Sheriff’s Office)

Anyone with information on Barnes’ whereabouts can contact the Yazoo City Police Department at (662) 746-1131.