NATCHEZ — Murder charges filed in connection with a shooting outside the Natchez Mall last month have been reduced, but more charges may be pending, Natchez Police Chief Mike Mullins.

Charges against Brandon Christopher Collins have been reduced to accessory after the fact to murder.

Collins was originally arrested on charges of murder in connection to the Aug. 27 shooting murder of Walter Washington outside the Natchez Mall.

Mullins said the murder charge against Collins, 22, 104 Dumas Drive, was dropped and the new charges filed after investigators were able to gather more evidence about the shooting.

He said no further details could be given because the investigation is ongoing. Mullins said additional arrests are imminent.

Natchez Police Department Investigator Lt. Craig Godbold said shortly after the shooting police believe Washington’s murder was intended as retaliation for the February shooting at Club Paradise of Calvin Matthews, for which Washington was charged.

Mullins has said the mall shooting, the club shooting and the drive-by shooting into a residence on Dumas Drive the day after the mall shooing are all related.

Collins’ bond is set at $65,000. He is facing five years in jail and a $1,000 fine.