BROOKHAVEN — Police Chief Kenny Collins said the 14-year-old suspect who shot and killed a 23-year-old man in June is yet to be in custody. Brookhaven Police Department initially gave the family time to turn the suspect in.

The deadly shooting occurred near apartments at 209 Pennington Street on June 22. Lincoln County Coroner Blake Wallace identified the victim as William Young. Wallace told The Daily Leader Saturday night it is believed an altercation led to the shooting. Collins added the victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds in an interview on June 23.. 

The identity of the 14-year-old suspect has not been released yet by Brookhaven Police Department. Collins said Friday morning they are still working to bring him in. He has given the family plenty of time to cooperate. 

Last week, Collins said the suspect could be between Brookhaven and Texas but the police department would work with the appropriate authorities when the time comes. Collins believes the suspect has to have some sort of help at his age. 

Collins said they will work with any agency they can to bring the juvenile in. 

“If we find anyone assisting this fugitive and we have the evidence you will be charged,” Collins said last week. “It didn’t have to be this way.” 

Police officers are working to collect statements from witnesses and processing evidence. Collins said there are a lot of moving parts to the case. 

Since Jan. 1, 2024, Brookhaven has had five shootings.