BROOKHAVEN — Police Chief Kenny Collins told The Daily Leader he would provide an update on the shooting death of 17-year-old Cordae Peyton when he had one. An article from the Jackson Advocate with “inaccuracies,” caused him to release a press release Thursday night. 

According to police, Peyton was shot and killed on Dec. 8th by a vehicle owner. As previously reported by The Daily Leader, the victim was suspected by the vehicle owner to have been involved in a burglary at the Speedy Wash on Industrial Park Road. 

Peyton’s family stated in a press release published on Facebook on Jan. 9, 2025 that the young man was at the Speedy Wash doing what he did every Sunday, washing clothes for the family. On Dec. 8, he was “an innocent bystander,” according to the family. The family alleged a police officer was involved in the shooting and also alleged the Brookhaven Police Department was trying to cover up the case. 

As previously reported by The Daily Leader, the police department is still working to collect all of the relevant facts, interview witnesses and analyze evidence to determine the full circumstances surrounding the event. 

The Jackson Advocate reported the bullet which killed Peyton was fired “from the gun of a Brookhaven Cop.” This is an inaccuracy Collins addressed directly. 

“Contrary to claims made in the article, a Brookhaven Police Officer was not involved in the shooting of Cordae Peyton,” Collins stated in a press release. “This is an ongoing investigation, and as such, there is limited information we can share at this time. However, we want to assure the public that we are committed to transparency and upholding the integrity of the investigative process.”

Collins asked for the community’s patience and cooperation as investigators continue to work on the case. He added updates would be shared when appropriate and when additional information becomes available. 

Collins stated the police department is unaware of where the source of misinformation in the Jackson Advocate article came from. 

“We urge all media outlets to verify facts before publication,” Collins said. “The circulation of false or misleading information can hinder investigations and create unnecessary confusion or concern within the community.”

The family ended their press release by stating who Cordae was in their eyes. 

“Cordae Peyton was a humble teenage kid, playful and kindhearted child who loved his family more than anything,” his family wrote. “On that day our family’s life has been changed forever and we have been looking for someone to hear our cry for help. Our family is urging for justice and peace in the wake of this tragedy.”