MERIDIAN, Miss. (Queen City Newsfeed) – The Meridian Police Department is seeking the public’s help in finding a man wanted in connection to an incident that occurred late Thursday night.
Jontae Lawan Portis, 25, is wanted for capital murder for the incident that occurred around 10:20 p.m. at 200 North Hills St., Oak Manor Apartments.
“Anyone who knows his whereabouts or is trying to hide him will definitely face charges,” Acting Captain Dareall Thompson said.
Anyone with information about Portis’ whereabouts is asked to call the Meridian Police Department at 601-485-1893 or Crime Stoppers at 855-485-8477.
Image: Jontae Lawan Portis, 25
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A man is dead following a shooting Thursday night at Oak Manor Apartments in Meridian.
According to the Lauderdale County Coroner, Stella McMahan, the victim has been identified as 19-year-old Justin Phillips. He was fatally wounded in the shooting, which occurred around 10:20 p.m. on December 19, 2024, in the 200 block of North Hills Street.
The Meridian Police Department responded to a call about shots fired at the scene. Upon arrival, officers discovered Phillips suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Acting Captain Dareall Thompson confirmed that police have a person of interest in the case. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are reviewing evidence collected from the scene to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
While police have not released additional details, the identity of the victim was confirmed by the coroner’s office following the investigation.
This is a developing story, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.
