Shooting in McComb leaves 14-year-old dead

Police investigating homicide, no suspect or motive identified yet

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

A 14-year-old male named KeyJaylen Cook was shot and killed on Sunday afternoon in east McComb, Mississippi. Cook was pronounced dead at a local hospital, but police have not yet identified a suspect or determined a motive for the shooting.

Why it matters

Gun violence involving minors is an ongoing concern in many communities, raising questions about public safety, access to firearms, and the need for intervention programs to prevent such tragedies.

The details

According to Pike County Coroner Rashad Taylor, KeyJaylen Cook was shot just after 1 p.m. on Avenue B in east McComb. He was later pronounced dead at Southwest Regional Medical Center. Police are currently investigating the incident but have not released any information about a suspect or the possible motive behind the shooting.

  • KeyJaylen Cook was shot on Sunday, February 16, 2026 just after 1 p.m.
  • Cook was later pronounced dead at Southwest Regional Medical Center.

The players

KeyJaylen Cook

A 14-year-old male who was shot and killed in east McComb, Mississippi.

Rashad Taylor

The Pike County Coroner who confirmed the details of KeyJaylen Cook's death.

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The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing challenges communities face in addressing gun violence, especially when it involves young victims. Authorities will need to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding KeyJaylen Cook's death in order to determine if any preventative measures could have been taken.