Jackson Mayor Moves to Close Nightclub After Two Killed in Sunday Shooting
City officials are seeking legal grounds to shut down The Hideaway after two patrons died and six were injured in a drive-by style attack.
By Carlos Rousseau ·
Residents of Jackson are facing new rules for nightlife as the city moves to close a popular venue. Mayor John Horhn ordered city attorney Drew Martin to review every legal option available to declare The Hideaway nightclub a public nuisance. The goal is to force the establishment to shut its doors permanently.
The push for closure follows a deadly incident that occurred over the weekend. Two women lost their lives inside the club. Lovdia Poindexter, 20, and Jada Henderson, 18, were confirmed dead. Six other people were shot and treated for injuries. Four women and two men were among the injured. Their ages ranged from 18 to 20.
Police say two men wearing ski masks entered the venue shortly before 1 a.m. on Sunday. The suspects approached a group on the dance floor. At least one of them drew a firearm and opened fire. Preliminary reports indicate the shooters were unidentified. No arrests have been made as of Monday.
The club is not open for business right now. Horhn confirmed that operations at The Hideaway are suspended while investigators work the scene. The mayor’s office is treating the location as a focal point for accountability. They want to ensure that places where violence occurs repeatedly face consequences.
Jackson State University canceled undergraduate classes for Monday and Tuesday. President Dr. Denise Jones Gregory acknowledged that students were among the victims. She offered support to the families and those recovering in hospitals. The university is allowing students time to process the tragedy and return to campus when ready.
Horhn said the city will use upcoming federal funds to bolster safety efforts. He cited a Model Cities Initiative grant that will bring millions of dollars to Jackson. The money is earmarked for new personnel, investigative technology, and violence prevention programs. He stated the city must address specific locations where serious violence continues to happen.
Investigators are asking for public help to find the two suspects. The Jackson Police Department is taking calls at (601) 960-1800. Crime Stoppers can also be reached at (601) 355-8477. Authorities have not released names of the men in masks. They are reviewing surveillance footage and speaking with witnesses at the club.
