Tristen Mackins – Authorities in Charleston are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred late Friday night, resulting in the death of a young man from Illinois. Police responded to reports of gunfire and a resulting vehicle crash at approximately 10:30 p.m. on December 26, 2025. The incident took place near the intersection of South Locust and South Green streets, and officers quickly located a vehicle that had collided with a fence behind a residence on the 300 block of South Franklin Street.
Inside the crashed vehicle, authorities found a man who had died at the scene. The victim was later identified as 21-year-old Tristen Mackins, a resident of Mounds, Illinois. Emergency responders confirmed that he had sustained fatal injuries as a result of the incident.
Preliminary information from investigators indicates that the vehicle was traveling eastbound on West Cypress Street when it was fired upon by one or more individuals. The driver reportedly lost control after the shots were fired, leaving the roadway and striking a utility pole before crashing into a fence. Authorities are actively investigating the circumstances that led to the shooting and the subsequent crash.
Officials have suggested that this homicide may be connected to at least two other recent violent incidents in Charleston. One of these incidents was a homicide reported on December 17, 2025, and the other involved a shooting that occurred earlier on December 26, around 1 a.m., in which a residence was struck multiple times and two people sustained injuries. Authorities are exploring potential links between these events as part of their ongoing investigation.
The Charleston Department of Public Safety is leading the investigation, with assistance from the Mississippi County Sheriff’s Department and the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Law enforcement officials have emphasized the importance of gathering information from the public to help identify suspects and understand the full scope of the incidents. Residents are urged to provide any tips or information that could aid investigators in solving these cases.
Authorities are asking anyone with knowledge related to these events to contact the Charleston Department of Public Safety at 573-683-3737. Police have stressed that even small details could be critical in advancing the investigation and helping bring those responsible to justice. Tips may also assist in preventing further violent incidents in the community.
The fatal shooting has raised concern among local residents, highlighting the need for increased awareness and vigilance. Community leaders and law enforcement officials continue to encourage residents to report suspicious activity and cooperate with authorities. Public participation is considered an essential component in ensuring safety and supporting the resolution of violent crimes in the area.
Officials have not released additional details regarding possible suspects or motives, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. Police continue to review evidence from the scene, interview potential witnesses, and examine any available surveillance footage to piece together what happened in the moments leading up to the shooting. Investigators are focused on establishing a clear timeline of events to better understand the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The Charleston Department of Public Safety, along with supporting law enforcement agencies, has committed to maintaining transparency with the public while conducting a thorough and careful investigation. Updates are expected as new information becomes available, and authorities have reiterated the importance of community cooperation in helping solve these cases.
Residents are reminded to stay alert and report any suspicious activity to local authorities. Law enforcement continues to work diligently to identify those responsible and to ensure justice is served. The tragic death of Tristen Mackins has underscored the importance of public safety measures and ongoing vigilance in protecting the community.
