SENATOBIA, Mississippi — Heartbroken family members and community residents gathered at a Walmart memorial this week to honor Kohen Kartier Wiley, the 1-year-old boy fatally shot by police during an incident in the store parking lot on June 14, 2026.

Kohen died after an officer fired into a vehicle in which he was riding with his mother, Vellesiya Wiley, and another adult. The shooting occurred as officers responded to a reported shoplifting call. The child was pronounced dead at a local hospital.

A large memorial featuring flowers, balloons, teddy bears, photos of Kohen, and signs calling for justice now stands outside the Senatobia Walmart. Grieving supporters, including family members, have held vigils and rallies demanding transparency and accountability. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump has joined the family, calling for the release of body camera footage and an independent autopsy.

According to police, officers attempted to stop the vehicle when it moved toward them, prompting one officer to fire. The family disputes aspects of the account, with Kohen’s mother stating she lifted the baby to show officers he was in the car. The driver was also injured. The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation is leading the probe, and the involved officer has been placed on administrative leave.

The tragedy has ignited strong emotions in the small Mississippi town, with protests and calls for answers. Many view it as part of a troubling pattern of police encounters with Black residents. Kohen’s family remembers him as a joyful toddler whose life was cut tragically short.

As the investigation continues, the community continues to gather in remembrance, with purple and blue balloons, crosses, and heartfelt messages filling the memorial site. Supporters emphasize that no family should have to bury a child under such circumstances.