Teenage suspects charged with capital murder in death of MJ Daniels

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) – Three male suspects, all under the age of 21, have been arrested and charged in the death of University of Southern Mississippi football player Marcus “MJ” Daniels Jr.

According to the Hattiesburg Police Department, the following three teenagers have each been charged with capital murder, as well as additional charges, for Daniel's death:

• Orlando May, 18, of Hattiesburg
  • One count of capital murder
  • One count of attempted armed carjacking
  • One felony count evaded
  • Two counts of grand theft – automobile

• Allen Marcus Gardner, 17, of Houston, Texas
  • One count of capital murder
  • One count of attempted armed carjacking
• Samir Green, 16, of Hattiesburg
  • One count of capital murder
  • One count of attempted armed carjacking

HPD says all three suspects were booked into the Forrest County Jail.

“While the investigation is ongoing, Hattiesburg Police continue to ask for the public’s assistance in providing any relevant information relating to the case,” the police department said in a news release Friday.

Police began their investigation Tuesday evening after responding to a situation at the Ivy Row residential complex on Ivy Row Circle. Forrest County Coroner Lisa Klem later confirmed that Daniels, 21, was shot and killed.

Daniels, a Lucedale native and George County High School standout, played his first season with the Golden Eagles last fall after transferring from the University of Mississippi.

The Hattiesburg Police Department says additional arrests and charges could occur.

If anyone has additional information on the case, contact Hattiesburg Police detectives at (601) 545-4971 or Crime Stoppers by calling (601) 582-STOP (7867). Anonymous tips can also be submitted HERE.

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