Tragedy Strikes at Ingalls Shipbuilding: Victim Identified as Tahj Johnson
A somber cloud hangs over Pascagoula, Mississippi, after a shocking and fatal workplace shooting at the Ingalls Shipbuilding facility on the morning of August 22, 2025. The victim has been identified as Tahj Johnson, an Ingalls employee whose promising future was abruptly and tragically cut short.
According to Pascagoula Police Chief Terry Scott, the shooting occurred around 7:30 a.m. aboard a vessel that was under construction at the facility. The incident prompted an immediate lockdown, leaving employees terrified and families anxiously waiting for updates. The sudden eruption of violence in a place known for craftsmanship and teamwork has left the entire community reeling from the unthinkable loss.
Suspect in Custody: Investigators Probe Possible Motive
Authorities confirmed that the suspected gunman, 25-year-old Curtis James Jr. of Mobile, Alabama, was taken into custody shortly after the shooting. Both Johnson and James were employees at Ingalls Shipbuilding, leading investigators to believe the tragedy stemmed from an earlier altercation between the two men earlier in the week.
Chief Scott revealed that the firearm used in the attack has yet to be recovered, adding another layer of concern to this already devastating event. While no additional injuries were reported, the shock of the shooting has deeply shaken Johnson’s coworkers and the Pascagoula community.
The senseless nature of the crime raises urgent questions about workplace safety and conflict resolution, as well as the hidden struggles that can escalate into violence if left unaddressed.
Community and Company Respond to an Unimaginable Loss
Ingalls Shipbuilding, a cornerstone employer in the Gulf Coast region, released a statement expressing profound condolences to Johnson’s family and pledging full cooperation with law enforcement as the investigation continues. Support services, including grief counseling, are being offered to employees affected by the traumatic event.
Friends and family describe Tahj Johnson as a hardworking, dedicated individual whose presence brightened every space he entered. Social media is now filled with heartfelt tributes, painting a picture of a life cut short far too soon. “Tahj was more than a co-worker—he was a brother,” one colleague wrote in a Facebook post that has since gone viral.
As Pascagoula grieves, vigils and memorials are being planned to honor Johnson’s life and legacy. This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of addressing disputes before they escalate and fostering safer, more supportive workplace environments.
The community stands united in mourning, praying for healing while demanding answers. For those who knew him best, Tahj will forever be remembered for his kindness, determination, and unwavering spirit—a life taken too soon, but never forgotten.
