The year 2024 began with a wintry blast, as Oxford experienced approximately two inches of snow, sleet and ice on January 15. The icy conditions left roads treacherous, with Lafayette County officials deeming it too risky to plow rural roads. Some residents remained homebound for several days, and schools closed for a week, as the ice persisted on streets.

Chick-fil-A Breaks Ground
In February, chicken enthusiasts in Oxford Commons rejoiced when construction crews began work on a new Chick-fil-A on Sisk Avenue, near Della Davidson Elementary School. The long-awaited restaurant finally opened its doors in August, drawing crowds from across the area.

Roundabout Oxford RV Resort
Excitement built in the spring for Roundabout Oxford RV and Water Resort. Around 75 residents attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony in April, celebrating a new venture by local developers Jay and Cris Hughes, along with Drs. Andrew and Alison Ross.

The resort promises 150 paved RV spots with full hookups and an array of amenities, including shaded playgrounds, pools, a lazy river, fitness facilities, pickleball courts, picnic areas, a yoga garden, bonfire pits, and more. Anticipation is high as the resort positions itself as a unique attraction in the area.

Connie’s Chicken
The reopening of Connie’s Chicken in July caused traffic jams on West Jackson Avenue as locals and visitors flocked to the iconic restaurant. Originally founded in 1978 by Constantine “Connie” Aster and his son Mike, the business was revived after being purchased by Nickle Smith and partners Tres Brasell and Chad Blalack.

Ole Miss Rebels Shine, Squirrel Steals the Spotlight
The Ole Miss Rebels football team enjoyed a strong 2024 season under fifth-year head coach Lane Kiffin, finishing 9–3. The highlight of the year was their victory over the Georgia Bulldogs, which saw jubilant fans storming the field and tearing down goalposts.

However, the team wasn’t the only attraction at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. During a game against Oklahoma, a squirrel raced across the field, delighting fans and briefly stealing the spotlight.

Herrington, Griste murder trials
December saw the first live-streamed trial in Oxford’s history, drawing national interest. Sheldon “Timothy” Herrington Jr. faced charges of capital murder in the 2022 disappearance of University of Mississippi student Jimmie “Jay” Lee. Despite Lee being declared dead, the jury deadlocked with an 11-1 vote, prompting the state to plan a retrial in 2025.

Another high-profile case reached its conclusion in 2024. Alexandria Griste was sentenced to 20 years in prison after being found guilty of imperfect self-defense manslaughter in the 2022 shooting death of her boyfriend, Corey Lyles.