Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson has requested that the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation take over the probe into Sunday night’s homicide at the Maryland Heights Apartments. The agency has accepted and will be joined by the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics. The shooting resulted in the death of 29-year-old Deja Davis and seriously injured 26-year-old Kurtavious Knight. Both were sitting in a vehicle at the complex when the incident occurred.
In Louisiana, the debate over allowing concealed firearms on college campuses is expected to resurface in the upcoming legislative session. Similar proposals have failed in previous years after opposition from university officials and campus police. State Representative Danny McCormick of Oil City says he plans to lead the effort this year after hearing from college students who believe their rights have been restricted. He argues that students should have the ability to defend themselves during an active shooter situation.
The Mississippi Senate has passed a bill that would shorten the required break period for retired state employees who wish to return to work. Federal rules currently mandate a 90‑day separation before returning to employment. The bill would reduce that requirement to 30 days. It also allows employers and retirees to agree on a return-to-work arrangement without altering retirement benefits. Under current rules, retirees may earn 50 percent pay for 50 percent work or receive up to 25 percent of their highest four years of salary. The proposed changes would permit earnings of up to 80 percent of the job’s salary.
LSU Alexandria reports another increase in enrollment. According to the university, overall spring enrollment is up nearly 12 percent compared to last year, driven largely by growth in online programs that attract adult learners. On-campus enrollment also rose by more than 10 percent. The university cites affordability and small class sizes as major factors behind the continued growth.
The Mississippi River at Natchez-Vidalia is at 18.26 feet and falling.
