A 14-year-old boy was fatally shot in Selma over the weekend, and authorities have confirmed that a 17-year-old suspect has been taken into custody in connection with the incident.
The Selma Police Department responded to reports of a shooting in the 1400 block of Weaver Street early Saturday morning, around 1:55 a.m. When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered a 14-year-old male victim who had sustained gunshot wounds.
Later that evening, Selma City Schools released an official statement identifying the victim as Jamarj Acoff. Interim Superintendent Darryl Aikerson expressed the community’s grief, stating, “This is a challenging time for us all as we deal with the loss.”
On Saturday afternoon, police arrested a 17-year-old suspect in connection with Acoff’s murder. Due to the suspect’s juvenile status, their name has not been disclosed. The teenager is currently being held without bond at the Perry County Detention Center, pending a court hearing.
Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive for the shooting, and the investigation is ongoing. In response to the tragedy, Selma City Schools announced that grief counseling services will be made available for students upon their return on Monday.
Law enforcement is urging anyone with additional information about the case to contact the Selma Police Department as the investigation continues.