Update in Tupelo Police Investigation of Two Homicides

Written with A.I. assistance.

Update August 5th, 2024: Arrest Made in Tupelo Stabbing Homicide

According to the Tupelo Police Department, an arrest has been made in connection with a fatal stabbing that occurred in East Tupelo on July 29, 2024. Stephen LaVaar McComb, 35, from Eupora, was taken into custody on August 5, 2024. Further details will be provided as they become available.

Stephen LaVaar McCombPhoto byTupelo Police Department

Original July 30th, 2024:

The Tupelo Police Department is investigating two separate homicides that occurred on the night of July 29, 2024, just an hour apart.

The first incident unfolded around 9:30 p.m. at the Sprint Mart located at 899 East Main Street. Preliminary reports suggest that an adult male, who had been involved in a disturbance on Canal Street, was stabbed. The victim drove to the Sprint Mart where he was attended by emergency medical services and subsequently transported to the North Mississippi Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

Approximately an hour later, at around 10:30 p.m., a second incident occurred at the Hilldale Apartments at 320 Monument Drive. Police were dispatched following reports of gunshots and a gunshot victim at the North Mississippi Medical Center. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots and seeing the victim lying on the ground. The victim was transported to the hospital by private vehicle and was pronounced dead upon arrival.

Detectives from the Tupelo Police Department are actively seeking individuals of interest related to each case, though names and descriptions have not been released. It is believed that both incidents involved prior interactions between the victims and suspects, and are not considered random.

The names of the victims will be disclosed when appropriate. The investigations are ongoing. Anyone with information regarding these incidents is encouraged to contact the Tupelo Police Department at 662-841-6491, via email at tpdrecords@tupeloms.gov, or through Crime Stoppers of North East Mississippi at 1-800-773-TIPS.