OXFORD — A large gathering at Booth’s Barbeque and Yard early Sunday led to multiple arrests, citations, and the recovery of several firearms after Oxford police officers responded to reports of overcrowding and gunfire.
Police said they were called to the business at 2200 South Lamar Boulevard at about 12:32 a.m. Aug. 31. The event drew such a large crowd that officers were redeployed from postgame traffic duty to assist with managing traffic, parking, and pedestrian congestion in the area. At the height of the incident, about 20 officers were on scene.
While officers were clearing a disturbance, shots were fired at approximately 12:47 a.m. No injuries were reported. Officers secured the business and arrested Antwan Terrell Tompkins, 19, of Tupelo, on a charge of aggravated assault. His bond will be set by a municipal judge.
Oxford Police Chief Jeff McCutchen praised his officers for their response.
“We are proud of how our officers responded; they immediately ran toward the sound of gunfire to protect lives and secure the scene,” McCutchen said in a statement. “This dangerous situation could have had tragic consequences for first responders, residents, visitors, and hundreds of people in and around the venue. We are extremely grateful for the swift actions and bravery of our officers who responded without hesitation to protect our community.”
Police also arrested Dezreke Meyel Douglas, 20, of Horn Lake, on a charge of carrying a concealed weapon prior to the shooting. In total, officers made 42 traffic stops in the area and recovered more than 10 firearms.
Event organizers were cited for noise violations and inadequate security. Those cited include:
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Tyler Bogan, 23, of Okolona
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Keith Jackson, 22, of Greenville
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Brandon Lott, 23, of Oxford
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Josh Booth, 42, of Batesville
Booth also faces additional citations for lack of security and access, lack of adequate security cameras, lack of an age verification system, and lack of a safety plan, police said.
The incident remains under investigation. Police ask anyone with photos, videos, or information to call OPD at 662-232-2400 or CrimeStoppers at 662-234-8477.
