Family of 1-Year-Old Kohen Wiley Demands Justice After Fatal Police Shooting in Senatobia

The family of 1-year-old Kohen Wiley is calling for transparency, accountability, and justice after the toddler was fatally shot during a police encounter outside a Walmart in Senatobia, Mississippi.

At an emotional press conference, Kohen’s mother, Vellesiya Wiley, delivered heartbreaking remarks that have resonated across the country.

“I watched my baby take his first breath, and I watched my baby take his last breath.”

Her emotional plea comes as the family continues to seek answers about what happened during the June 14 incident that ended the life of their only child.

What Happened?

According to the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI), officers responded to a report of suspected shoplifting at a Walmart in Senatobia. Authorities said they encountered two adults and a young child leaving the area in a vehicle.

Investigators say officers attempted to stop the vehicle. Police allege the driver then drove toward officers, nearly striking one of them, prompting an officer to fire at the vehicle. The occupants later arrived at a nearby hospital, where 1-year-old Kohen Wiley was pronounced dead. The woman driving the vehicle also suffered critical gunshot injuries.

Family Disputes Police Account

Kohen’s family strongly disputes the official version of events.

Represented by civil rights attorney Ben Crump, the family says the vehicle was driving away rather than toward officers. Vellesiya Wiley has said she lifted her son into the air in an attempt to show officers that a baby was inside the vehicle before shots were fired.

The family is also questioning the circumstances surrounding the reported shoplifting allegation and has denied claims that the situation justified the use of deadly force.

Independent Autopsy and Release of Video Requested

During the press conference, Ben Crump announced that the family will pursue an independent autopsy to examine the trajectory of the bullets and other forensic evidence.

Attorneys are also demanding the release of police body-camera footage, dash-camera recordings, and Walmart surveillance video, arguing that the public deserves a complete and transparent account of what occurred.

The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation continues to lead the inquiry, while the officer involved has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.

Community Calls for Accountability

Kohen’s death has sparked protests and vigils throughout Senatobia, where many residents have expressed concerns over police conduct and demanded greater transparency.

Community members, civil rights leaders, and supporters have gathered to honor the toddler’s life while urging officials to release evidence surrounding the shooting.

The tragedy has renewed broader discussions about police use of force and accountability during encounters involving children and families.

Investigation Continues

Authorities have not released body-camera footage, citing the ongoing investigation. Officials say investigators are reviewing witness statements, forensic evidence, and available surveillance footage before determining whether criminal charges or additional actions are warranted.

For Kohen Wiley’s family, however, the investigation is about more than legal findings.

They say they simply want the truth—and justice for a little boy whose life ended far too soon.