In a shocking and tragic incident that has stunned the community of Minden, Louisiana, a 10-year-old boy has confessed to the fatal shooting of former mayor Joe Cornelius, 82, and his daughter Keisha Miles, 31.
The double homicide occurred early Sunday morning, leaving the small town near Shreveport stunned.
Minden Police Chief Jared McIver confirmed that the young boy admitted to the killings, which took place around 6:30 a.m. at a residence on Austin Street. Both victims were found with multiple gunshot wounds.
Joe Cornelius was a prominent figure in Minden, having served as a sheriff’s deputy, marshal, and long-time member of the Minden City Council before his appointment as mayor in 2013. His extensive public service background makes this tragedy particularly impactful for the local community.
Neighbors reported hearing an argument between the boy and Cornelius prior to the shooting, though the exact nature of their dispute remains unclear.
The relationship between the 10-year-old and the victims has not been disclosed by officials.
“We’ve got a confession. But in these cases, when you’re in it, it’s very delicate. When you’re dealing with a child of this age, in their stage, we’re looking at was there motive, what was the motive? What caused it? What sparked it?” McIver said in a statement.
The police have confirmed that they know the origin of the firearm used in the crime, but have not released this information to the public.
Describing the young suspect, McIver noted that the boy appeared “scared” but also seemed to have a “mindset to commit a crime like this.”
As the investigation continues, the Minden community is left to mourn the loss of two of its members while grappling with the shocking nature of the murders.
Support services are being offered to those affected by the deaths of Cornelius and Miles.
Boy, 10, Reportedly Confesses to Killing 82-Year-Old Former Louisiana Mayor and His Daughter https://t.co/olRTtyx1Bj
— People (@people) September 3, 2024