Meridian HS Basketball Alum Tristen Mackins Killed in Shooting Incident Ending in Car Crashing Into Fence, Leaving Parents Heartbroken

A young soul gone too soon.

December 28, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on December 28, 2026

Tristen Mackins passed away at just 21 years old after a tragic car crash and shooting in Charleston, Missouri, on December 26, 2026.

On Friday, December 26, 2026, tragedy struck when Charleston police responded to reports of gunfire near South Locust and South Green streets around 10:30 p.m.

Officers discovered a vehicle crashed into a fence behind 301 South Franklin Street. Inside, they found Mackins’s deceased.

Investigators believe he was driving eastbound on West Cypress Street when one or more suspects opened fire on the vehicle, causing him to lose control, strike an electric pole, and crash.

On the other hand, authorities suspect this homicide is connected to a series of violent incidents in Charleston.

The first was a December 17 homicide, and the second occurred earlier on December 26, when a house was riddled with gunfire around 1 a.m, leaving two people injured.

Police believe these events may be linked, pointing to escalating violence in the area.

Explore Further: Cumberland Mourns Death of Beloved Athlete Logan Mott, 20-Year-Old Hero Who Saved Lives Through Organ Donation After Four-Year Battle from 2026 Car Crash

Tristen Mackins Was A Talented Basketball Player At Meridian High School!

Tristen Mackins was a varsity guard and team captain for the Meridian Bobcats, graduating in 2026.

Standing at 5’10” and weighing 150 pounds, he played four seasons of high school basketball, consistently contributing to Meridian’s winning records.

His teams posted strong conference finishes, including an 8–0 first-place record in 2026 and multiple state rankings.

Known for his quickness and shooting ability, Mackins earned recognition in local stat sheets for his three-point shooting and free throws.

His passing has left a deep void in both his hometown of Mounds, Illinois, and the wider basketball community.

Friends and teammates remember him not only for his quickness on the court and his leadership as a Meridian High School guard, but also for his kindness and determination off the floor.

One of his closest friends shared a heartfelt tribute, saying:

as i sit here the tears literally will not stop falling no matter how hard i try. tristen was a real genuine soul man, when he came around, he had everybody laughing til they couldn’t breathe lbs. my cousin really had it going on and he WANTED better for himself. the fact that y’all really just took his life? i just can’t grasp it

Southern Illinois Sports reporter Chris Dexter shared his condolences, saying:

My thoughts and prayers go out to my friends at Meridian and to the family and friends of Tristen Mackins. Tristen passed overnight at just 21 years old. He was a 2026 Meridian High School graduate and played a huge role in the Meridian team’s run to the Gallatin County Sectional championship, before falling to Tuscola at the SIU Super Sectional. I always enjoyed my interactions with Tristen and covering him on the court. The Meridian family has endured so much tragedy in recent years, and they need all of our thoughts and prayers.”

Although he passed away, Tristen Mackins’ legacy as a gifted athlete and a genuine soul continues to live on.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to Tristen Mackins’ friends, family, and well-wishers.

Rest In Peace, Tristen Mackins!

Find Out More: Panther Valley HS Baseball Player, Stephen Hood, Dies in Car Accident, After Losing Control on Black Ice, Leaving Behind Parents Ron and Jenny Hood and Brother Brad

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Sangita is a passionate blogger with a keen eye for covering recent and trending news, particularly in the world of sports. Her love for travel and nature fuels her writing, adding a vibrant and refreshing perspective to her work. When she's not chasing the latest headlines, Sangita can be found exploring new destinations, capturing the beauty of nature, and sharing her adventures with her audience. Her unique blend of interests and expertise makes her blog a go-to source for both news enthusiasts and fellow travelers.

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