WANTED FOR MURDER IN MERIDIAN: Police Seek Public’s Help Locating Shooting Suspect Ketwantavius Azurdijour Dean

WANTED FOR MURDER IN MERIDIAN: Police Seek Public’s Help Locating Shooting Suspect Ketwantavius Azurdijour Dean

MERIDIAN, MISS. — June 21, 2025 — The Meridian Police Department is actively searching for Ketwantavius Azurdijour Dean, who has been identified as a suspect in a deadly shooting that occurred Saturday morning in the parking lot of a local Burger King.

The incident unfolded outside the Burger King located on North Frontage Road, where officers were dispatched in response to reports of gunfire just after daybreak. Upon arrival, law enforcement officers found a male victim suffering from a gunshot wound in the restaurant’s parking lot.

Emergency responders quickly transported the wounded man to a nearby hospital. Despite medical efforts, the victim succumbed to his injuries and was later pronounced dead. The victim’s identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.

Suspect Fled the Scene

According to witnesses and surveillance footage, the suspect—now identified as Ketwantavius Azurdijour Dean—fled the scene immediately following the shooting. He was reportedly seen driving away in a small, tan-colored sedan, the exact make and model of which has not been confirmed by investigators.

Meridian Police have classified Dean as armed and dangerous, and they urge the public not to approach him if spotted. Instead, authorities are asking anyone who may have seen Dean or the vehicle he was driving to contact law enforcement immediately.

Ongoing Investigation

The motive behind the shooting is still under investigation. Detectives are working to piece together the events leading up to the confrontation and are reviewing surveillance footage from the fast food establishment and nearby businesses to aid in tracking the suspect’s movements before and after the incident.

Officials have not said whether Dean and the victim knew each other or whether the shooting appeared to be targeted or random. However, the prompt identification of a suspect has intensified efforts to bring Dean into custody swiftly.

Public Urged to Assist

In a statement issued by the Meridian Police Department, Acting Captain Dareall Thompson urged the public to come forward with any tips that might assist in the manhunt.

“We are working diligently to locate Ketwantavius Dean and hold him accountable,” said Capt. Thompson. “We are asking the community to remain alert and contact authorities with any information, no matter how small it may seem. Your call could be the one that helps bring justice to the victim and their family.”

Anyone with knowledge of Dean’s whereabouts is encouraged to contact Acting Captain Dareall Thompson directly at 769-298-5111. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through local Crime Stoppers channels.

Community Reaction

The fatal shooting has left many in Meridian stunned and uneasy, particularly due to its occurrence at a well-frequented location during morning hours. The Burger King parking lot, typically busy with commuters and families, quickly turned into a crime scene marked by sirens, crime tape, and a heavy police presence.

Community leaders have expressed condolences to the victim’s family and urged residents to support the investigation by remaining vigilant.

“We cannot allow violence like this to become the norm,” said a local council member. “We must speak up, support one another, and cooperate with police so we can make our streets safer.”

Conclusion

As the investigation continues, the Meridian Police Department is focused on locating Ketwantavius Azurdijour Dean and bringing him into custody. The public’s assistance is crucial in this effort.

If you have any information, please call Acting Captain Dareall Thompson at 769-298-5111. Your tip could help deliver justice for a life lost far too soon.

Stay tuned for updates as more details emerge.