Mississippi Teen Charged in Killing of Elderly Couple

A 17-year-old from Mississippi has been charged in the killing of an elderly couple during an incident that led to a standoff with police. The suspect, Cordarius Hobbs, allegedly broke into the home of Billy Blair, 74, and Virginia Carol Blair, 71, in Mendenhall, Mississippi, on June 3 and killed them, as reported by WLBT.

Simpson County Sheriff’s Office deputies were called to the scene at around 12:24 p.m. on June 3 after family members were unable to contact the couple. Upon arrival, deputies encountered gunfire. Bailey Martin, a spokesperson for the Department of Public Safety, stated that a burglary was underway when officers reached the location. Civilians and officers were reportedly pinned down by the gunfire.

Although Rankin County Sheriff Bryan Bailey mentioned that Hobbs initially promised law enforcement he would surrender at the front door, he instead fled through the back of the house, initiating a chase. During the event, one deputy was shot. A Mississippi state trooper eventually shot and arrested Hobbs, who was then taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Hobbs faces multiple charges, including two counts of capital murder, one count of burglary, and several counts of aggravated assault. These charges include four counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, four counts against law enforcement officers, and two counts specifically citing assault on individuals over the age of 65.

“We are crushed in spirit, bruised, and brokenhearted,” the couple’s family shared in a statement on Facebook.

Jason Busby, a friend of the Blairs, spoke with WLBT, expressing shock over the tragedy. “The man would’ve given you the shirt off his back, his wife is the same,” he said. “Everybody around here is still in shock. They were just good people.”

For more information, send tips to reporter Adam Sabes at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter @asabes10.