Police, Prosecutors Update Murder Case of Comedian Reginald Carroll

Photo: DeSoto County District Attorney Matthew Barton speaks at a news conference at the Southaven Police Department’s West Precinct on Wednesday, Aug. 27. To his right is Southaven Police Chief Seth Kern. (Courtesy photo)

SOUTHAVEN, Miss. – Authorities provided new details Wednesday in the ongoing investigation of the fatal shooting of Baltimore comedian Reginald “Reggie” Carroll, who was killed last week in Southaven.

During a press conference at the Southaven Police Department’s West Precinct, District Attorney Matthew Barton and Southaven Police Chief Seth Kern outlined the case against Tranell Marquise Williams, 38, of Southaven, who has been arrested and charged with murder.

The Shooting and Arrest

Carroll, who was living in Southaven at the time of his death, was fatally shot at a residence on Burton Lane around 6:30 p.m. last Wednesday. Authorities said both Carroll and Williams lived at the residence as roommates.

Responding officers quickly arrived on scene and attempted life-saving measures before Carroll was transported to a hospital, where he died from his injuries. Williams was taken into custody that night after investigators determined there was probable cause for an arrest warrant.

Barton said Williams used a 12-gauge shotgun loaded with slugs in the shooting, causing multiple wounds to Carroll.

Legal Process Moving Forward

Williams remains in custody without bond. A preliminary hearing and bond hearing were originally scheduled for Wednesday but have been postponed for a week at the request of the defense.

Barton explained that once the Southaven Police Department completes its investigation, the case file will be turned over to his office for review and presentation to a DeSoto County grand jury. The grand jury will determine whether to indict Williams on formal charges.

“We don’t rush these cases. We act diligently, but the gravity of the situation requires us to be very thorough,” Barton said.

Officials Stress Case Is Isolated

Chief Kern and Barton both emphasized that the shooting was an isolated incident between two roommates and not part of a broader crime trend in Southaven.

“This is not an indication of a problem in the neighborhood or in our city,” Barton said. “It was a private matter between two individuals.”

Authorities also dispelled rumors linking the residence to comedian Katt Williams. Officials confirmed the property was a rental home leased to Carroll and Trannell Williams and had no connection to the entertainer.

Community Impact

Carroll, known in Baltimore comedy circles, had performed with fellow comedians across the country. His death has drawn attention both locally and in his hometown.

Barton said his office is mindful of the national interest in the case but urged patience as investigators and prosecutors move through the judicial process.

“This is going to take time,” Barton said. “But justice will be pursued as quickly and reasonably as possible.”