On May 9, 2026, 30‑year‑old Chaleyl Alexander was shot and killed inside the Sunset Plaza Apartments on Sunset Drive in Jackson, Mississippi. Police quickly identified 25‑year‑old Mario Marley Jr. as the suspect, and he was taken into custody. The investigation remains ongoing as detectives work to determine the motive.
Officers with the Jackson Police Department responded to a call of aggravated assault at approximately 6:27 p.m. in the 3500 block of Sunset Drive. When they arrived, they discovered Alexander unresponsive inside a residence. He had sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene by Hinds County Coroner Jeramiah Howard.
Responding units included patrol officers, homicide detectives, the Mobile Crime Lab, and the coroner’s office. The coordinated response ensured that evidence was collected immediately from the apartment complex, which is located in southwest Jackson and has been the site of previous police activity.
Investigators quickly identified Mario Marley Jr., age 25, as the suspected shooter. He was arrested and taken into custody. Police have not released details about the motive or whether the victim and suspect had any prior relationship. Marley is currently facing charges connected to Alexander’s death.
Authorities emphasized that the case remains open, with detectives continuing to interview witnesses and review forensic evidence. Officials have urged anyone with information to contact the Jackson Police Department to assist in piecing together the events leading up to the fatal shooting.
The sudden death of Alexander has left the Sunset Plaza community shaken. Neighbors expressed grief and concern over the violence, while family members mourn the loss of a young man whose life was cut short. The homicide underscores ongoing concerns about gun violence in Jackson, where police continue to investigate multiple recent shootings.