STAR, Miss— The Rankin County Sheriff’s Department has released new and disturbing details surrounding a violent shooting that took place on July 17, 2025, in the normally quiet community of Star. Two teenagers—identified as Erianna Mashaya Garrett, 18, of Florence, and Ladarius James Harrison, 17, of Brandon—have been taken into custody in connection with the shooting, which left Garrett’s brother seriously injured.
The Incident
Deputies responded to a home on Eddie Williams Drive on the evening of July 17 after receiving reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, they found a male victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency medical services quickly transported the victim to a nearby hospital for treatment. His current condition has not been officially released, but authorities indicated he survived the attack.
In a troubling twist, investigators later confirmed that the victim is the brother of suspect Erianna Garrett, and the shooting is believed to have stemmed from a verbal altercation between the siblings earlier that day.
According to the Rankin County Sheriff’s Department, following the argument, Garrett contacted her boyfriend, Ladarius Harrison, via telephone. Harrison, who resides in Brandon, reportedly drove to the residence, confronted the victim, and opened fire—striking him multiple times before fleeing the scene.
Authorities say Garrett also fled the property, choosing to hide in a nearby abandoned mobile home rather than staying to assist her injured brother or contacting emergency services.
Arrests and Charges
Both suspects were located and apprehended shortly after the shooting:
- Erianna Mashaya Garrett (18) was arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit a felony.
- Ladarius James Harrison (17) was charged with attempted murder. Though only 17, Harrison is being charged as an adult due to the severity of the crime.
The pair were booked into custody and are being held at the Rankin County Jail pending further legal proceedings. Their first court appearances are expected later this week.
Authorities Speak Out
Officials say the shooting shocked the local community and underscores the alarming consequences of domestic disputes escalating into violence.
“This is a tragic situation on many levels,” said Rankin County Sheriff Bryan Bailey. “We have a family torn apart by violence, and two young lives now deeply entangled in the criminal justice system. It’s heartbreaking.”
The Sheriff’s Office also confirmed that both suspects were in a romantic relationship at the time of the incident. Detectives believe Garrett’s decision to involve Harrison was deliberate and premeditated, though the investigation remains ongoing to determine the full extent of the planning behind the attack.
Community Response
Residents of Star and surrounding areas have expressed shock and concern following the arrest of the two teenagers. Community leaders are calling for increased attention to youth mental health and conflict resolution within families.
Local clergy and school counselors have offered support to the family and the neighborhood, with some organizing prayer vigils and community forums to address rising tensions and provide spaces for healing.
Investigation Continues
Authorities have not disclosed whether additional charges may be forthcoming as the investigation proceeds. Forensic evidence, digital communications, and witness statements are still being reviewed to ensure a full and accurate accounting of the events leading up to the shooting.
Anyone with information that may assist investigators is urged to contact the Rankin County Sheriff’s Office.
This incident marks another somber reminder of how quickly verbal disputes can spiral into tragedy, especially when firearms are involved. As Rankin County continues to seek justice for the victim, the community also grapples with the emotional fallout of a family devastated from within.
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