In Loving Memory of Nykel Poole: Gulfport Community Mourns 19-Year-Old Killed in Fatal Shooting as Murder Suspect Arrested

GULFPORT, Miss. — The Gulfport community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Nykel Poole, a 19-year-old whose life was tragically cut short in a shooting Monday night. His untimely death has left family, friends, and loved ones devastated as they struggle to come to terms with the loss of a young man whose future held endless possibilities.

According to the Gulfport Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire near the intersection of 20th Street and 32nd Avenue at approximately 8:45 p.m. Monday. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered Poole suffering from what appeared to be a single gunshot wound.

Despite the rapid response of emergency personnel, Harrison County Coroner Brian Switzer confirmed that Nykel Poole was pronounced dead at the scene at 8:55 p.m. His passing has sent waves of grief throughout the Gulfport community, where many are remembering a life taken far too soon.

As investigators worked the scene, officers located two additional victims who had also sustained gunshot wounds during the incident. One victim suffered life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to a trauma center for emergency medical treatment, while the second victim was transported by ambulance to Memorial Hospital. Authorities say both individuals remain in critical condition as they continue receiving intensive medical care.

Following the shooting, investigators quickly identified a suspect. Police arrested John Gaddis III, 34, in connection with the incident. Authorities said he was taken into custody without incident a short time after the shooting and has since been charged with one count of first-degree murder and two counts of aggravated assault.

Gaddis was booked into the Harrison County Adult Detention Center, where he is currently being held on a $2 million bond pending further court proceedings.

The Gulfport Police Department continues to actively investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Detectives are interviewing witnesses, reviewing evidence, and working to determine what led to the tragic violence. Officials have indicated that additional information may be released as the investigation progresses.

For those who knew Nykel Poole, however, the investigation cannot erase the profound pain of losing someone so young. At just 19 years old, he was at the beginning of adulthood, with hopes, ambitions, and countless opportunities ahead of him. His sudden death has left loved ones mourning not only the person he was but also the future that will never be realized.

Family members and friends have begun gathering to honor Nykel’s memory, reflecting on the moments they shared with him and the impact he made during his young life. While words cannot fully express the sorrow of such an unexpected loss, the support pouring in from neighbors, friends, and members of the Gulfport community serves as a reminder that they are not grieving alone.

The tragedy has also renewed conversations about the devastating impact of gun violence on families and communities. Incidents such as this leave lasting emotional wounds that extend far beyond those directly involved, affecting entire neighborhoods and reminding everyone of the importance of working together to create safer communities.

As loved ones remember Nykel, many are choosing to focus on celebrating his life rather than allowing the circumstances of his death to define his legacy. The memories he created with family and friends, the relationships he built, and the lives he touched will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Authorities are asking anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward. Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact the Gulfport Police Department at 228-868-5959 or Mississippi Coast Crime Stoppers at 877-787-5898. Anonymous tips are accepted and may assist investigators as they continue working to establish a complete account of the events that unfolded Monday night.

As the investigation remains ongoing, the Gulfport community continues to pray for the recovery of the two victims who remain hospitalized in critical condition while standing in solidarity with the families whose lives have been forever changed by this tragic act of violence.

Nykel Poole’s life ended far too soon, but his memory will continue to live on through the love of his family, the friendships he cherished, and the countless lives he touched. May his loved ones find comfort in the memories they shared, strength in one another, and peace in knowing that his legacy will never be forgotten.