3 unrelated incidents keep law enforcement busy Saturday night

Three incidents had law enforcement hopping Saturday night. Adam-4, Deputy Chief Penny Jones was in charge of directing officers and had stationed several in the downtown area. The strategic placements seemed to be successful in minimizing trouble makers in the massive crowds downtown and at the city auditorium.

Penny Jones (credit: City of Vicksburg)

A family returning from a night celebrating near Jackson had an unfortunate accident occur when unpacking their vehicle. The father, a 59-year-old Vicksburg resident, moved several items including a handgun from the trunk. The gun slipped off the vehicle and discharged hitting the man in an extremity. He was taken to Merit Health River Region and then transported to UMMC by request. His injury was minor and he will fully recover from the accident.

The City Auditorium hosted a blues show that was packed out. Parking spots were full for several blocks surrounding the auditorium and the packed house enjoyed a southern tradition. Late in the evening, just before midnight, two individuals in the packed house got into an altercation. As people pushed and shoved to try and stop the fight a 70-year-old man was knocked backward and fell to the floor. He was taken to Merit Health River Region according to radio traffic to be checked out. It is not believed his injuries were serious.

Part of the crowd leaving the City Auditorium. Photo by David Day

At almost the same time, just before midnight, the downtown area also had two individuals escalate from a shouting match to a pushing match and then to a fight on Washington near South Street. The officers placed there by Chief Jones were able to calm the men and one reported to the Vicksburg Daily News the “fight” lasted all of 10 seconds.

Sunday night Chief Jones will be leading the team as they handle the challenge of managing the massive crowds expected to attend the annual fireworks show that will be held in front of the Depot Museum. The Chill will start playing at 7 p.m. The post-COVID-19 July 4th celebration will culminate in a fireworks show that is always a crowd pleaser.