Mayor John Horhn seeks closure of Hideaway nightclub in Jackson after two JSU students were killed
By Sam Furman
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JACKSON, Mississippi (WAPT) — Jackson Mayor John Horhn has directed the city attorney to explore legal options to close the Hideaway nightclub following a deadly weekend shooting at the property.
In a statement provided to the media and posted on Facebook, Horhn condemned the violence, which he said killed innocent people and injured others.
“My heart is with the families who are grieving, those recovering from their injuries, and everyone who experienced it,” Horhn said. “No one should have to fear for their life while enjoying an evening out.”
Two people were killed and six others injured in a shooting at the Hideaway nightclub in the 5100 block of Interstate 55 North Frontage Road at approximately 1 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 1 during a Halloween costume party, according to the Jackson Police Department.
Police identified the victims as 20-year-old Lovdai Poindexter and 18-year-old Jada Henderson. Both were pronounced dead at the scene, and their families have been notified.
Six other victims were taken to local hospitals with injuries that appear to be non-life-threatening, police said. The injured victims include four women, ages 18, 18, 19 and 20, and two men, ages 19 and 20.
According to preliminary findings, two unidentified men wearing ski masks entered the club shortly before the shooting. At least one of the suspects allegedly pulled out a gun and opened fire on a crowd gathered on the dance floor.
Investigators have not determined a motive for the shooting.
The mayor said the incident was the second deadly shooting at the location in recent months.
“That is unacceptable,” Horhn said. “I have directed the City Attorney to explore all available legal options to have this property declared a public nuisance and pursue its closure.”
Horhn said the city would follow the required legal process but would not ignore repeated violence that puts lives at risk.
Operations at the Hideaway have been suspended pending further investigation.
The mayor also urged anyone with information about the shooting to assist the Jackson Police Department. He said those responsible must be held accountable.
Horhn pointed to the Model Cities Initiative grant as one way the city plans to strengthen law enforcement and violence-prevention efforts. According to the mayor, the funding will support investments in personnel, investigative technology and violence prevention.
“These resources will support our efforts to prevent violence and bring those responsible to justice, but we must also address places where serious violence continues to occur,” Horhn said.
“The people of Jackson deserve safe places to gather and enjoy their city. Protecting that right and protecting human life will remain our priority.”
Authorities have not released additional information about the victims, possible suspects or what led to the shooting.
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