Pascagoula, MS — A deadly shooting at Ingalls Shipbuilding, Mississippi’s largest shipyard, left one man dead Friday morning and has sent shockwaves through the local community and workforce. Authorities confirmed that 28-year-old Tahj Johnson, an employee at the shipyard, was fatally shot aboard a Navy vessel under construction, and the alleged shooter, 25-year-old Curtis James Jr. of Mobile, Alabama, is now in custody.
The Shooting Incident
The tragic event occurred around 7:30 a.m. at the Pascagoula facility, one of the nation’s primary Navy shipbuilding sites. Johnson and James, both employees in the shipyard’s paint department, reportedly became involved in a dispute earlier in the week. That altercation escalated Friday morning when James opened fire on Johnson aboard a vessel under construction.
Employees described the scene as chaotic. The shipyard was immediately placed on lockdown as emergency responders and law enforcement swarmed the area. By 9 a.m., James was taken into custody without incident. No other injuries were reported.
Response by Authorities and Shipyard
The Pascagoula Police Department, in coordination with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, is leading the investigation into the shooting. While the firearm used has not yet been recovered, detectives are reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and examining potential motives linked to prior workplace disputes.
Ingalls Shipbuilding swiftly implemented safety protocols following the incident. Employees were sent home with pay, and grief counseling services are being offered to all staff affected by the tragedy. Shipyard President Brian Blanchette issued a statement, saying:
“This is an unimaginable tragedy. Our thoughts are with the family of Tahj Johnson and all our employees impacted by this terrible event. We remain committed to the safety and well-being of our workforce.”
Community Impact
The shooting has left the Pascagoula community shaken. Residents and coworkers expressed disbelief at the violence occurring at one of the region’s largest workplaces. “Everybody was in shock,” said a local employee. “You never think something like this could happen at work.”
The incident has sparked broader discussions about workplace safety and the need for preventive measures to address potential conflicts before they escalate into violence.
Remembering Tahj Johnson
Tahj Johnson is being remembered by colleagues and family as a dedicated worker with a positive spirit. The shipyard and local community are mourning his untimely death, and support services are being provided to help employees and loved ones cope with the tragedy.
Investigation Continues
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including the motives and how the weapon was obtained. Updates will be provided as new information becomes available. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the impact of workplace violence and the importance of maintaining safety and security in large-scale operations.
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