The mood was somber Tuesday at Grenada High School after news of a fellow student’s death began quickly circulating throughout the hallways.
According to Grenada Police Department Chief George Douglas, officers discovered a body in a “brushy overgrown area” adjacent to a residence next to Honeytown Park in the 700 block of Leigh Avenue at approximately 11:41 p.m. Monday. Grenada County Coroner Douglas “Little Bobby” Yates later identified the body as being that of Ayden Reno of Grenada.
Chief Douglas added that a call of shots fired was reported in the area earlier that evening. However, the cause of Reno’s death is being investigated and has not been determined if he died as the result of a gunshot wound.
The Grenada School District issued a statement acknowledging the loss.
“The Grenada School District is heartbroken to share the loss of one of our beloved students,” GSD posted to Facebook. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, classmates and teachers who are grieving during this incredibly difficult time. Counselors and support staff are available for students and staff who need someone to talk to.”
First block classes at GHS were extended Tuesday to allow students and faculty time to “process last night’s loss.”
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our own,” GHS posted on Facebook. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family, students, staff and our community.”
Ayden Reno
Photo by Adam Prestridge © 2025 Emmerich Newspapers, Inc.
Reno, 16, was a junior at GHS. He wore No. 27 on the Chargers football team participating as a defensive back. He was also a member of Visions show choir.
“We encourage our community to lean on each other and hold close the memories that bring comfort and peace,” GSD continued in its post. “May we find strength together and keep the family in our hearts.”
Kirk Academy – Grenada County’s private school – also offered its condolences on social media.
“Our hearts go out to the GHS family as they mourn the loss of a student,” the school posted on Facebook. “We are lifting the entire school, their classmates, teachers, friends and loved ones in our prayers during this difficult time.”
The comment was accompanied by an image of Grenada’s “G” logo reading: “Kirk Academy sends our thoughts and prayers to Grenada High School. #grenadastrong
“The Lord is close to the broken hearted. And saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
KA’s post also referenced Isaiah 41:10, which reads: “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”
Deputies with the Grenada County Sheriff’s Office and medical personnel with MedStat Emergency Medical Services also responded to the scene.
Yates said he pronounced Reno deceased at 12:25 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 23, at the scene. His body has been transported to the Mississippi State Crime Lab for autopsy. Results are pending.
The case remains under investigation.
“The Grenada Police Department solicits the support of the community by providing any information in connection with the case,” Chief Douglas concluded.
If you have any information regarding this case, please call the GPD at (662) 226-1211 or (662) 227-TIPS.
