In Loving Memory of Markeise Gipson

In Loving Memory of Markeise Gipson

In the quiet of a Friday night, a community was shaken by sudden tragedy. On February 20, 2026, just after 8:30 p.m., officers with the Pine Bluff Police Department responded to reports of gunfire at Two Brothers One Stop, located along South Blake Street in Pine Bluff.

There, in the parking lot near the building, they found 21-year-old Markeise Gipson lying unresponsive. He had sustained apparent gunshot wounds and was pronounced gone at the scene. Two other young men were also injured during the incident and were transported to Jefferson Regional Medical Center, where they were last reported to be in stable condition.

But beyond the flashing lights and the police reports, beyond the headlines and investigation details, this story is about a life — a young life — that mattered deeply.

At just 21 years old, Markeise was standing at the threshold of adulthood. He was someone’s son, someone’s brother, someone’s friend. He carried dreams not yet fulfilled and plans not yet spoken aloud. His laughter, his voice, his presence — all woven into the daily rhythm of those who knew and loved him — now leave a silence that words struggle to fill.

Those who grow up in communities like Pine Bluff understand how tightly woven relationships can be. A loss like this ripples far beyond one family. It touches neighborhoods, schools, workplaces, and friend groups. It leaves classmates remembering shared jokes, relatives recalling childhood milestones, and friends replaying their last conversations, wishing for just one more.

Tragedy struck in a place meant for ordinary moments — a quick stop at a convenience store, a routine Friday night. Instead, it became the site of heartbreak. Authorities continue to investigate, noting that suspects were seen in a gray wide-body Dodge Charger with a black roof, spoiler, and hood scoop. The motive remains unknown. Yet amid the unanswered questions, one truth stands clear: a young man’s life was taken too soon.

Markeise’s family now faces the unimaginable — planning farewells when they should be planning celebrations, reflecting on memories instead of making new ones. The weight of grief is heavy, especially when it arrives without warning. But even in grief, love remains. Love does not disappear with loss. It grows stronger, more visible, more fiercely protective of the memories that remain.

We remember Markeise not for the way he left this world, but for the way he lived in it. For the impact he had in 21 short years. For the smiles he shared. For the potential he carried. For the kindness, the energy, the humanity that made him uniquely himself.

As the investigation continues and the community searches for answers, may we also search for compassion. May we hold his loved ones close in prayer and support. May we check on one another a little more often. And may we honor his memory by striving for peace in a world that too often turns to violence.

To the family of Markeise Gipson: your pain is seen. Your loss is felt. Your son, your brother, your loved one will not be forgotten.

Rest peacefully, Markeise.

Gone far too soon, but forever remembered. 🕊️