By The People’s Paper MS Staff
MENDENHALL —According to Simpson County Coroner Terry Tudor, Bill and Carol Blair were the victims of Wednesday’s standoff. Tudor said both died from homicide and confirmed they were shot. He declined to provide additional details, citing the ongoing investigation being handled by the Mississippi Bureau of Investigations.
The MBI is looking into a shooting involving law enforcement that happened June 3 at the home in Simpson County. The incident left two people dead, one deputy injured, and a teenager now in custody.
Authorities identified the 17 year old as Cordarious Hobbs. He is facing possible charges including capital murder, armed robbery, and burglary. He is being held at the Rankin County Jail.
Investigators say deputies went to the home after being asked to check on the residents. When they arrived, they noticed signs that something was wrong and believed a break in was in progress.
Officials say Hobbs fired at deputies, striking one in the foot, according to Simpson County Sheriff Paul Mullins.
Authorities say Hobbs stayed inside the home as officers secured the area and more law enforcement arrived to assist.
Investigators say tear gas was used in an effort to get him out of the home. Hobbs then ran from the residence and is accused of firing toward officers again. A state trooper shot Hobbs during that encounter.
Hobbs was taken into custody and treated at a hospital for injuries that were not life threatening before being booked into jail.
No other officers were hurt.
The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation says the case is still active. Agents are continuing to collect evidence and will share their findings with the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office when the review is complete.
Officials say the information released so far is preliminary and could change as the investigation continues.
