In Loving Memory of Deja Davis

In Loving Memory of Deja Davis (1996–2026)

With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, we remember the life of Deja Davis, 29, of Natchez, whose life was tragically cut short in a senseless act of violence on Sunday night. Deja was taken from this world far too soon in a drive-by shooting while sitting in a car in the Maryland Heights subdivision. The incident left her family, friends, and community in deep mourning, struggling to understand how such a bright and precious life could be lost so suddenly.

Deja was more than a victim of violence—she was a daughter, a friend, a loved one, and a soul who mattered deeply to those who knew her. Her laughter, her presence, and her spirit left an imprint on the people around her. In the quiet moments and shared memories, her loved ones will remember the warmth she brought into their lives, the conversations, the smiles, and the ordinary moments that now feel extraordinarily precious.

The tragedy of her death is compounded by the circumstances surrounding it. She was sitting in a car when gunfire erupted, and though another individual, Curtavius Knight, was seriously wounded, Deja did not survive the attack. The violence that claimed her life echoes a painful pattern that has plagued too many communities—where disputes, past conflicts, and cycles of retaliation spiral into deadly consequences, often claiming innocent lives in their wake.

The history connected to this incident is complex and troubling. Knight, who was present during the shooting, had previously been arrested in 2018 for his role in a drive-by shooting that resulted in the death of Shakeria King and the wounding of J’Landrick Davis at the Holiday Apartments. He later pleaded guilty as an accessory to murder. Despite this past, he was already out and living in the community. Now, once again, violence has struck, and another young life has been lost. Deja Davis was also tragically shot and killed at the Susie B. West Apartments in November 2025, underscoring the ongoing danger and heartbreak that continues to affect families and neighborhoods.

As authorities investigate this latest shooting, questions linger—about justice, safety, accountability, and how such tragedies can be prevented. But beyond the headlines and police reports, there is a grieving family, a circle of friends, and a community left with an irreplaceable void. No investigation or court process can bring back Deja’s life or fully heal the pain of her loss.

Today, we lift Deja Davis in our thoughts and prayers. We pray for her family as they navigate unimaginable grief, for her friends as they mourn the loss of someone who mattered deeply to them, and for a community that continues to suffer the consequences of violence. May her memory be a reminder of the urgent need for peace, compassion, and change.

Rest in peace, Deja. Your life mattered. Your memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved you, and your story will not be forgotten.