Mississippi authorities have reported that they have made three arrests in connection with the murder of a college student from Louisiana. The victim’s body was discovered earlier in the week.
According to reports, three individuals have been arrested by the West Feliciana Parish Sheriff’s Office in connection with the fatal shooting of Steven Harris IV, a former Southern University student. The suspects have been identified as Derek Terrell Hollins Jr., 21, from St. Francisville, Calajia Jack, 20, also from St. Francisville, and Allyah Martin, 21, from Zachary.
On July 17, Harris went missing, and his body was discovered on July 23 in Wilkinson County. He had been shot multiple times.
According to officials, Harris and Martin shared parenting responsibilities and were scheduled to appear in court for a custody case on July 18. However, when Harris failed to show up for the hearing, her family grew worried.
According to officials, the three individuals are currently facing charges of first-degree murder in Wilkinson County and conspiracy to commit first-degree murder in West Feliciana Parish. Additionally, Hollins has been charged with possession of a machine gun.
As per the West Feliciana Sheriff’s Office, Hollins, Jack, and Martin are currently detained on bonds of $450,000, $365,000, and $350,000 respectively.
At present, the suspects are in custody at the West Feliciana Parish Jail, where they will remain until extradition proceedings commence. Following this, they will be transported to Mississippi to face first-degree murder charges.
Sheriff Brian Spillman stated that during their investigation, they found compelling evidence that DJ Hollins, Calajia Jack, and Allyah Martin conspired to lure and eventually shoot and kill Steven Harris in Mississippi. According to Sheriff Spillman, DJ Hollins used a Glock handgun with a switch that allowed it to fire in full auto mode to carry out the killing. Although Mississippi authorities are pursuing charges, Sheriff Spillman believes that the plan to commit the crime was formulated in West Feliciana Parish and that the initial stages leading up to the murder occurred there. The sheriff further added that they will continue working with Mississippi authorities to ensure that justice is served in the death of Steven Harris.
In a social media post, Southern University expressed its sincere condolences to the loved ones of Harris.
The post expressed condolences from Southern University and A&M College to the loved ones, peers, and acquaintances of Steven Harris. Harris was a sophomore majoring in criminal justice and also a member of the renowned “Human Jukebox” Marching Band.
If you’re a student at Southern University and have been affected by the recent tragedy, don’t hesitate to reach out to the University Counseling Center. You can contact them at 225-771-2480 or via email at [email protected] during regular business hours. Additionally, there are free 24/7 online and telehealth counseling services available for both students and employees. You can find more information about these services by visiting subr.edu/counselingcenter.
