Veshawn Williams, 25, of Columbus, and Robert Mayfield, 27, of Memphis, Killed in Shooting Outside Starkville Quality Inn; Both Succumb to Injuries After Transport to OCH Regional Medical Center

Starkville, MS — A tragic shooting occurred early Thursday morning outside the Quality Inn at 403 MS-12, leaving two men dead in the aftermath of a violent confrontation. The victims, identified as Veshawn Williams, 25, of Columbus, and Robert Mayfield, 27, of Memphis, were both transported to OCH Regional Medical Center after being found with critical injuries. Despite all efforts by medical professionals, both men succumbed to their wounds. The incident, which remains under investigation, has drawn significant attention from both local authorities and the community, as more details continue to emerge regarding the individuals involved and the circumstances leading to the deadly altercation.

Background of the Incident and Victims

The deadly incident occurred on the morning of February 20, 2025, at approximately 11:04 a.m. Multiple 911 calls were placed to the Starkville Police Department (SPD) alerting them to gunfire outside the Quality Inn, which immediately prompted a swift response from local law enforcement. When officers arrived at the scene, they found two men—later identified as Williams and Mayfield—suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Medical teams were dispatched, and both victims were rushed to OCH Regional Medical Center in Starkville.

Unfortunately, despite receiving medical attention, both victims ultimately succumbed to their injuries. Investigators have not yet released the specifics of the wounds sustained by the men, nor have they provided any details about potential suspects or a motive. Authorities have confirmed, however, that the shooting involved three individuals: a woman, her boyfriend (Williams), and her cousin (Mayfield). The woman, whose identity remains undisclosed, was at the scene when the altercation escalated into violence.

Law Enforcement and Investigative Efforts

Following the deadly encounter, the Starkville Police Department immediately launched an investigation into the shooting. The SPD’s Criminal Investigations Division is currently leading the probe, with assistance from other local law enforcement agencies. According to SPD, the shooting appears to have been the result of a confrontation between the three individuals. Preliminary reports suggest that tensions between the two men may have led to the tragic escalation of events.

At the time of the incident, law enforcement officials also confirmed that Veshawn Williams was wanted by the Columbus Police Department on charges of kidnapping and aggravated assault. This revelation has raised questions about whether Williams’ criminal history played any role in the fatal altercation. As of now, the exact circumstances leading up to the shooting remain unclear, and investigators are working to gather evidence, including surveillance footage, eyewitness testimony, and forensic analysis of the scene.

Victims’ Backgrounds and Personal Lives

Veshawn Williams, 25, hails from Columbus, MS, and had a history with law enforcement. Before the shooting, Williams was reportedly facing serious charges in Columbus, including kidnapping and aggravated assault. Details surrounding these charges are still emerging, and authorities are working to establish a full timeline of his criminal activities leading up to the events in Starkville. Friends and family members of Williams, when approached by local media, have refrained from commenting, though sources close to the investigation suggest that Williams may have been involved in a tumultuous personal life that could have contributed to the altercation at the Quality Inn.

Robert Mayfield, 27, was from Memphis, TN, and, according to law enforcement, was not previously known to have a criminal record in Mississippi. While information about his past is still being gathered, Mayfield’s family has expressed deep shock and heartbreak over his untimely death. Relatives say he had been in Starkville visiting his cousin and was not involved in any criminal activities at the time of the incident. Mayfield’s sudden and violent death has left those close to him in mourning, and the investigation into his tragic killing is likely to provide more clarity in the days ahead.

Both victims were known to their families as kind-hearted individuals who were loved by those who knew them. Their untimely deaths have sparked grief and disbelief, not only within their families but also in their respective communities.

Details of the Confrontation

According to the Starkville Police Department, the violent altercation occurred outside the Quality Inn, a well-known local hotel located on MS-12. The hotel is situated near several local businesses and public spaces, meaning the shooting took place in a relatively busy area. Investigators have suggested that the confrontation likely began inside the hotel before spilling into the parking lot, where the fatal shots were fired.

While police have confirmed that a woman was involved in the incident, they have not released her name or any further details regarding her involvement. Some sources suggest that the woman may have been romantically linked to Williams, as he was identified as her boyfriend. She has reportedly been interviewed by law enforcement but has not been taken into custody. At this time, investigators are withholding further information on her identity and her role in the shooting.

According to local reports, witnesses described seeing the altercation escalate quickly, with shouting and physical confrontation preceding the gunfire. While police are working to identify additional witnesses to the scene, early reports indicate that bystanders heard multiple shots before the suspects fled the area. No arrests have been made at this stage, and law enforcement officials have not revealed any details about potential suspects or persons of interest.

The Role of the Quality Inn and Local Businesses

The Quality Inn, where the shooting took place, has become an area of heightened focus in the investigation. Hotel staff members have been interviewed by police, and surveillance footage from the hotel’s security cameras is being reviewed for evidence. The hotel, located at 403 MS-12, is a popular stop for travelers passing through Starkville, and police believe the altercation may have been sparked by personal disputes, rather than random violence.

Several local businesses and residents near the Quality Inn have expressed concern over the shooting. Local businesses in the area, including restaurants, shops, and gas stations, have previously reported occasional incidents of violence in the vicinity, though none of them have been as tragic as this one. Law enforcement in Starkville has pledged to enhance patrols in the area to reassure residents and business owners that safety remains a priority in the community.

The Ongoing Investigation and Community Reactions

As of now, the Starkville Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Authorities are examining all potential motives, including the possibility of personal or emotional factors playing a role in the confrontation. Officers have asked for the public’s assistance in providing any information or evidence that may help in solving the case.

The Starkville community, already shaken by the loss of two lives, has rallied around the victims’ families, with many offering condolences and support. Local leaders have expressed their sorrow over the deaths and have vowed to take necessary steps to ensure that such an incident does not happen again.

At this stage, no formal charges have been filed, and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are working tirelessly to bring clarity to what happened that fateful morning, and to identify those responsible for the tragic loss of life.

Conclusion

The shooting outside the Quality Inn in Starkville, MS, on February 20, 2025, has left the community in shock and mourning as two men, Veshawn Williams and Robert Mayfield, lost their lives in an act of violence that remains under investigation. As authorities continue their work to piece together the events leading up to the shooting, the local community has come together to support the families of the victims. With more information likely to emerge in the coming days, law enforcement is asking for any additional witnesses or individuals with relevant information to come forward.

As the investigation progresses, the memories of Williams and Mayfield will undoubtedly be honored by those who knew them, and the community will continue to seek justice for the victims of this senseless tragedy.