MERIDIAN, Miss. — A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded Friday evening in Meridian after police say a man fatally shot his own grandmother, an act that has left the community reeling. The Meridian Police Department (MPD) confirmed the victim as 78-year-old Sandra Goodwin, a longtime resident known for her warmth and devotion to her family.
The incident occurred around 5 p.m. near Manning Street and 46th Avenue, where officers responded to reports of a gunshot victim. Upon arrival, emergency crews from MPD, the Meridian Fire Department, and Metro Ambulance found Goodwin suffering from a severe gunshot wound. She was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition but sadly succumbed to her injuries despite medical intervention.
According to authorities, moments after the shooting, a man walked into Meridian Police Headquarters on 22nd Avenue and confessed to shooting his grandmother. Investigators confirmed that the suspect is Goodwin’s grandson, though his name has not yet been publicly released. Police immediately took him into custody, and Judge Dustin Markham ordered that he be held without bond, citing public safety concerns. A bond reevaluation hearing is scheduled for November 3.
Detectives have not yet revealed a possible motive behind the fatal shooting, and the investigation remains ongoing. Evidence technicians spent several hours at the scene collecting ballistic evidence and interviewing witnesses as neighbors expressed shock over the senseless violence. Authorities have scheduled a press conference for Monday at 9:30 a.m., where additional details are expected to be released.
“This is a deeply tragic situation that has shaken our city,” an MPD spokesperson said. “Our hearts go out to the family as they navigate this unimaginable loss. We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation to determine exactly what happened.”
Friends and neighbors have described Sandra Goodwin as a kind-hearted woman who often went out of her way to help others. Her death has left a profound void in the community she loved so dearly. As Meridian mourns, residents are rallying around her grieving family, offering support and prayers during this time of sorrow.