A police officer in Mississippi has been placed on administrative leave after a tragic incident that resulted in the death of one-year-old Kohen Wiley. This followed a response to a shoplifting call, confirmed officials on Tuesday night.
The shooting occurred on Sunday outside a Walmart located in Senatobia. The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation reported that Wiley was inside a vehicle with his mother and her friend, leaving the store when the event unfolded.
According to the bureau, as police attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver advanced toward the officers, almost striking one. A responding officer fired at the vehicle, which then fled the scene. The two women later reached a hospital, where Kohen was declared deceased.
The officer involved has not been publicly named but is on administrative leave, following standard procedure after shootings involving officers.
“At the Mayor and Board of Aldermen meeting tonight, it was discussed and decided that the Officer involved in the incident that occurred Sunday, June 14, 2026, at Walmart has been placed on administrative leave,”
said a statement from the city of Senatobia posted on Facebook. The incident has sparked protests, with demonstrators gathering outside the Walmart on Tuesday night. Action News 5 reported that law enforcement dispersed them using tear gas.
Ben Crump, a civil rights attorney representing the Wiley family, expressed concerns on platform X, stating, “A one-year-old child is dead after police officers in Mississippi opened fire on a vehicle in a crowded Walmart parking lot in Senatobia.” He noted that Kohen’s mother, facing no charges, tried to alert the officers to the presence of a baby in the car.
Crump added, “We intend to seek justice for baby Kohen and the life that was stolen from him.”
The Senatobia Police Department issued a statement on Sunday emphasizing their dedication to transparency. “As the investigation progresses and facts are verified, we will share as much information as possible,” they reassured the public.
This situation continues to develop, with updates to follow as more information becomes available.