11-Year-Old Charged in Killing of 82-Year-Old Ex-Mayor and Daughter
In a tragic and shocking case from Minden, Louisiana, an 11-year-old boy has been charged with the murders of his 82-year-old relative, Joe Cornelius Sr., a former city councilman and briefly the mayor of Minden, and Cornelius’ 31-year-old daughter, Keisha Miles. The double homicide has sent ripples through the small community, raising questions about the motive and the circumstances surrounding the crime.
Details of the Crime
The police discovered the bodies of Joe Cornelius Sr. and Keisha Miles at their home early on Sunday morning. Both victims had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. The police found the young suspect at the scene, and he initially gave a story that did not match the evidence. However, after further questioning with an adult family member present, he confessed to the murders.
Chief Jared McIver of the Minden Police Department announced that the boy is facing two counts of first-degree murder and is being held on a $500,000 bail. The authorities recovered two firearms from the scene, which were matched to the shell casings found there. Chief McIver has confirmed that the boy acted alone but has not yet revealed how he accessed the firearms or the relationship between the suspect and the victims.
Community Reaction
The news has deeply shocked the residents of Minden, a city with a population of about 11,500. Joe Cornelius Sr. was a beloved figure in the community, remembered fondly for his long service as a city councilman and his brief stint as mayor following the death of the previous mayor in 2013. Cornelius was also known for his work as a sheriff’s deputy and marshal, and for his efforts in organizing local events and programs.
Cornelius was affectionately known as “Mr. Joe” and “Ice Cream Joe” due to his generosity and his role in distributing free ice cream to local children. His passing has left the community mourning the loss of a cherished figure who had a significant impact on Minden.
Legal and Investigative Aspects
The case is raising complex legal questions, particularly concerning how the boy will be prosecuted. It is not yet clear if he will be tried as an adult. The local Public Defender’s Office has not yet confirmed if they will represent the boy. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities still working to determine the motive behind the killings.
District Attorney’s Office spokespersons have not provided additional details on the potential legal proceedings, but the community and observers are awaiting further information as the case develops.
Statements from Local Officials
Minden’s current mayor, Nick Cox, expressed the community’s grief, saying, “Joe Cornelius was more than just a public servant.” He praised Cornelius’ efforts to improve the city and described the loss as particularly painful due to the deep connections Cornelius had within the community.
Chief McIver echoed the sentiment, noting the profound impact of the crime on Minden. “Everybody knew Mr. Joe, and that’s what hurts the most,” he said. The shocking nature of the crime, especially involving such a young suspect, has left many in the community searching for answers and grappling with their grief.
The case continues to develop, and the community of Minden remains in mourning as they come to terms with the loss of two of their own and the unsettling details surrounding the tragedy.