Suspect charged with murder in fatal shooting

An alcohol-fueled argument in a nightclub parking lot escalated into a shooting that left one person dead and a suspect behind bars last weekend.

Yazoo County Coroner Ricky Shivers said Rothelio Sanders, 28, was pronounced dead by Pafford paramedics outside a business in the 600 block of Broadway from gunshot wounds.

Zachery Carter has been charged with murder, according to Police Chief Terry Gann.

“Alcohol was a factor in this incident as the two individuals argued, leading to a fight in the parking lot,” Gann said. “The victim was able to escape, but the suspect retrieved a handgun. When the victim attempted to flee, the suspect shot him twice in the back.”

Gann said Sanders later died at the scene and Carter was arrested shortly after the incident.

“Although this incident occurred in the parking lot of a nightclub, the nightclub itself had closed moments earlier,” Gann said. “The nightclub was operating during regular hours. I believe alcohol was a contributing factor in this incident.”

Gann said Carter was claiming self-defense, but the case would go to the grand jury.

“It will be up to the Grand Jury to determine that outcome,” Gann added.