MOSELLE, MS – Law enforcement authorities in Jones County are investigating a deadly shooting incident at Southern Hens Inc., a poultry processing facility located at 329 Moselle-Seminary Road. The Jones County Sheriff’s Department (JCSD) confirmed that the shooting occurred on the afternoon of Wednesday, January 29, 2025, when an armed suspect attempted to enter the facility before being fatally shot by an on-duty security guard.

Incident Overview

According to JCSD Sheriff Joe Berlin, deputies responded to an emergency call regarding an active shooter situation at approximately 2:00 p.m. The caller reported that a man armed with an AR-style rifle was attempting to gain access to the Southern Hens facility.

Upon arrival, law enforcement officers found the suspect deceased at the scene, having sustained gunshot wounds inflicted by a security officer stationed at the facility. No employees, security personnel, or emergency responders were injured during the incident.

“This was a rapidly evolving situation, but thanks to the swift and decisive action taken by the security guard, a potential tragedy was averted,” Sheriff Berlin stated. “Our thoughts are with all those affected, and we are working diligently to gather all the facts surrounding this case.”

Details of the Suspect and Investigation

Authorities have not yet released the identity of the suspect, pending notification of next of kin. Investigators are working to determine a possible motive behind the attempted breach of the facility.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing the suspect approach the main entrance of Southern Hens while carrying a firearm. Security personnel immediately confronted the suspect, instructing him to lower his weapon. When the suspect failed to comply and instead raised the weapon, the security guard fired multiple shots, stopping the threat.

Sheriff Berlin confirmed that JCSD investigators, along with forensic teams, are reviewing surveillance footage, gathering witness statements, and processing evidence from the scene.

Southern Hens Employee and Security Response

Employees inside the facility described moments of fear and confusion when they were alerted to an armed suspect outside. According to worker testimonies, a company-wide security protocol was swiftly enacted, instructing employees to shelter in place while security officers engaged the threat.

“We heard alarms and got the message to stay inside,” said one employee, who asked to remain anonymous. “It was terrifying, but the security team did their job. They saved lives today.”

Southern Hens Inc. has since released a statement, expressing relief that no employees were harmed while offering condolences to those impacted by the traumatic event.

Community and Law Enforcement Response

The Jones County Sheriff’s Department, along with the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI), is conducting a comprehensive inquiry into the incident. Sheriff Berlin assured the public that there is no further threat to the community and that authorities will provide updates as more details become available.

“We urge anyone with additional information to come forward,” Berlin said. “We remain committed to ensuring the safety of our community and preventing incidents like this in the future.”

JCSD encourages anyone with relevant details to contact their tip line or the local Crime Stoppers unit.

Conclusion

As investigations continue, authorities are working to determine what may have led the suspect to target Southern Hens Inc. The quick response by security personnel prevented what could have been a more devastating outcome. More updates are expected in the coming days as officials piece together the timeline of events and potential motives behind the attack.

For now, the Southern Hens facility remains operational but has implemented additional security measures to ensure the continued safety of its employees. The community of Moselle remains on alert as they process the shock of what could have been a mass tragedy.

Authorities continue to investigate the suspect’s background, prior activities, and whether any external factors contributed to the attempted attack.