Ashton Clay Bean was 13 and a student at Pearl River Central when he died of a gunshot wound on the morning of August 19, 2022. Known for enjoying fishing, hunting and football, Ashton was described as a hardworking, kind-hearted son, brother and friend in the Picayune area.

The shooting occurred in a home in the Tin Hill subdivision of Carriere. Deputies from the Pearl River County Sheriff’s Department responded about 7:15 a.m. after a reported firearm discharge and found that two juveniles had been involved. Initial reports said the fatal shot was fired while Ashton and another boy were handling a gun. The coroner confirmed Ashton’s identity and cause of death. Details about who owned the firearm and exactly how the incident unfolded have not been released, and no arrests or charges have been announced.

Anyone who knew Ashton or who has information about what happened that morning is asked to come forward.