Three individuals were arrested and charged in the shooting death of Steven Harris IV, a 20-year-old Southern University student from St. Francisville, Louisiana. Harris’ body was discovered with multiple gunshot wounds in Wilkinson County, Mississippi, five days after he went missing on July 17, 2024.
Harris was a sophomore studying criminal justice and a respected member of the university’s renowned marching band, the Human Jukebox.
The suspects, Derek Terrell Hollins Jr., 21, and Calajia Jack, 20, both from St. Francisville, and Allyah Martin, 21, from Zachary, Louisiana, were charged with first-degree murder charges in Wilkinson County. They are also charged with conspiracy to commit first-degree murder in West Feliciana Parish, Louisiana.
Harris was reported missing after failing to return home for a custody hearing scheduled for July 18. He and Allyah Martin, the mother of his nearly two-year-old son, were co-parents involved in a custody dispute. His family grew concerned when he did not appear for the hearing.
LaSonia Harris, the mother of Steven Harris IV, conveyed profound sorrow and confusion over her son’s death. She described feeling overwhelmed by the circumstances, viewing them as an intentional act to harm both her and her family. She expressed a mix of emotions, including anger and pain, believing that her son’s death was unnecessary and avoidable.
Investigators suspect that the individuals involved planned to entice Harris into traveling to Mississippi, where he was ultimately shot and killed. Sheriff Brian Spillman highlighted that the evidence indicates the murder was orchestrated in West Feliciana Parish. He mentioned that while Mississippi authorities are handling the charges, the planning and initial steps of the crime took place in West Feliciana Parish.
Derek Hollins Jr. allegedly used a modified Glock handgun capable of firing in fully automatic mode to kill Harris. Sheriff Spillman confirmed Hollins admitted the weapon used was his.
The case has drawn significant attention, partly due to Allyah Martin’s involvement in the alleged plot. Reports indicate that Harris and Martin had filed multiple restraining orders against each other before the custody hearing, indicating a strained relationship.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are encouraging people with more information to step forward. Deputy OJ Packnett expressed his condolences, acknowledging the severity of the incident and extending his thoughts and prayers to the Harris family.
Southern University expressed its condolences to the family and friends of Steven Harris. The marching band department recognized him as an excellent student and musician, noting that his enthusiasm, kindness, and passion for music made him a beloved part of their community.
As the legal proceedings continue, Harris’s family and the community remain focused on seeking justice for a young life lost. The family set up a GoFundMe page to assist with funeral expenses and support their son. The fundraising effort generated over $6,000.
