Two Arrested For Murder in Philadelphia

The Philadelphia Police Department has made arrests in connection with the early morning shooting on July 12 that claimed the life of 19-year-old Jamari Hickman and injured three others.

The following individuals have been arrested and charged:

Ja’Tavious Johnson, 20, of Carthage, Mississippi

Jacob Triplett, 20, of Carthage, Mississippi

Both suspects have been charged with First-Degree Murder and three counts of Attempted Murder.

Both men were arrested in Leake Co. with the assistance of Carthage Police Department and the Leake Co Sheriff's Office.

On July 12, 2026, at approximately 12:15 a.m., officers responded to the area of W. Walnut Street after receiving multiple reports of shots fired and multiple victims. The shooting occurred during a large birthday gathering attended by individuals from several surrounding counties.

Upon arrival, officers found Jamari Hickman suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Officers immediately began rendering aid until emergency medical personnel arrived. Hickman was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.

Three additional victims were transported to a local hospital by private vehicle. One female sustained a gunshot wound to the leg and was later transferred to another hospital for additional treatment. The other two victims—a female who was grazed in the arm and a male who was grazed in the leg—were treated and released later that night.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation, and additional arrests are expected.

Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Philadelphia Police Department.