PASCAGOULA, Miss. — Authorities in Pascagoula are investigating a deadly shooting that took place early Friday morning at Ingalls Shipbuilding, the state’s largest manufacturing employer and a critical hub for U.S. Navy and Coast Guard ship production.
According to the Pascagoula Police Department, officers were dispatched to the shipyard at approximately 7:32 a.m. following reports of gunfire. When they arrived on scene, police confirmed that one individual had been fatally shot. A suspect was quickly taken into custody, though officials have not released any information regarding the suspect’s identity or possible motive.
As of Friday, the victim’s name has not been released pending notification of next of kin. Police emphasized that the situation has been contained and that there is no active threat to the public.
The incident prompted a heavy law enforcement presence, with multiple agencies responding to secure the shipyard and ensure the safety of employees. Emergency vehicles were seen entering and exiting the facility throughout the morning as investigators began processing the crime scene.
In a statement, HII, the parent company of Ingalls Shipbuilding, expressed sorrow over the tragedy and reassured employees that steps were being taken to maintain safety inside the shipyard. Workers were instructed to shelter in place immediately after the shooting until law enforcement gave the all-clear.
Ingalls Shipbuilding, located on the Pascagoula River, has been in operation for more than 85 years and is recognized as the largest supplier of surface combatants for the U.S. Navy. It is also the largest manufacturing employer in Mississippi, with thousands of workers employed at the facility.
The city of Pascagoula, home to about 22,000 residents, is closely tied to the shipyard both economically and culturally, making the incident particularly impactful for the local community. Many residents expressed shock as news of the shooting spread, noting the rarity of such violence in a workplace that has long been considered a cornerstone of the region.
Police say the investigation remains ongoing, and additional details—including the identities of both the victim and the suspect—will be released as they become available.
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