Laurel High School student killed, suspect behind bars

LAUREL, Miss. - A Laurel High School student is the victim of a murder.

Laurel Police said they responded to a call Tuesday night of shots being fired at the intersection of South 19th Avenue and Lincoln Street.

Police said Mekel Crumbly, 18, shot Tamerick Drummond multiple times. Police have not released a motive yet, but Tamerick's father said the two had a conflict.

Tamerick was taken to South Central Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.

Tamerick's family, along with Laurel Police Officers, and counselors went to Laurel High School Wednesday to help students grieve through this devastating time.

Tamerick’s father, Maurice Pruitt said, "My son was a great student. Honor roll, principal list, superintendent list, a great character, always smiled, loved everyone, and he knew how to make everyone love him. He wasn't a kid that stayed in trouble. He was a kid that would do his own thing. He was into fashion."

"Being in trouble isn't anything I don't want to see any child in. I don't have any animosity toward the guy that did this or his family, because I'm real good friends with his family, and I know him. I've known him since he was a little boy," said Pruitt.

"I'm praying for his family. I'm praying for my family. I'm constantly praying. I haven't slept. It's very hard. I stayed up all night. I'm exhausted right now. I love my son. I miss him," said Pruitt.

Tamerick would have turned 17-years-old Wednesday.

He also played wide receiver for Laurel last year.

Crumbly remains behind bars on a $250,000 bond.