VIDEO: New Details Emerge From The Murder Of Mississippi State Student

STARKVILLE, Miss. (WCBI)-New details are continuing to emerge from the Sunday morning shooting that took the life of 21 year old MSU student Joseph Tillman.

On Monday, the Starkville Police Department and District Attorney Scott Colom held a press conference releasing more information about the shooting.

Police have identified 20 year old Jaylen Barker as Tillman’s killer.

He’s now being charged with murder and has a one million dollar bond.

Also in connection with this shooting is 22 year old Jamario Pippens, 19 year old Brandon Sherrod, and 16 year old Tyler Harris, all being charged with accessory after the fact.

Their bond is set at $500,000.

During the presser Starkville police chief Frank Nichols said the shooting wasn’t random.

Prior to the shooting Starkville Police Chief Frank Nichols said there was an altercation that took place between Tillman and the four suspects.

“We know based on evidence that Mr. Tillman interacted for at least four additional minutes Before a shot was fired,” said Chief Nichols. “Based on evidence we know at least one shot was fired and the suspect ran towards Stagger-Inn.”

District Attorney Scott Colom said there was also a robbery that occurred prior to the shooting, Tillman was the victim.

However, none of the four men have been connected to that crime

“At this time we don’t have evidence to indicate that Mr. Barker or any of the other suspects, we don’t have evidence to show that they assisted or abated in the robbery,” Colom explained.

 
On Monday three of the four suspects Barker, Pippen, and Sherrod made their initial Court appearance for the murder of Tillman.

Harris’ case will go through Youth Court first because he’s still a juvenile.

“After those changes are sought in youth court based on the evidence of the investigation develops, there’s potential for him to still have charges in circuit court as a felony charges as an adult,” said Colom.
All of the charges may be upgraded as the investigation continues.