Boy, 11, admits to killing ex-mayor and daughter in Louisiana
Boy, 11, charged with killing ex-mayor and daughter in Minden
A boy, 11, has confessed to police that he fatally shot the former interim mayor of a small Louisiana town and his adult daughter, authorities said. The child was taken into custody on Sunday afternoon after admitting to killing Joe Cornelius Sr., 82, and Keisha Miles, 31, in Minden, Louisiana, earlier that day.
Police Chief Jared McIver provided this information during a news conference on Tuesday. Cornelius had served as a longtime Minden city councilman and former interim mayor, according to the current mayor.
“Joe Cornelius’ years of service to Minden were marked by his commitment and dedication to the betterment of our community,” Mayor Nick Cox stated in a release on Facebook. “On a personal note, I am grateful for his friendship and the many ways he supported me and others in our city.”
11-year-old boy confessed to killing former Louisiana mayor and his daughter, police say
Joe Cornelius Sr., 82, and Keisha Miles, 31, were found dead Sunday morning after officers were dispatched to Cornelius' home in the city of Minden. pic.twitter.com/g1rL6H2bWI
— Simo saadi🇲🇦🇵🇸🇺🇸 (@Simo7809957085) September 3, 2024
The boy, described as a relative of the victims, faces two counts of first-degree murder and is being held on a $500,000 bond. It remains unclear if he will be tried as an adult. Authorities are working to determine if the boy has legal representation.
Police discovered the victims with gunshot wounds after a family member contacted 911. Two weapons were found hidden on the property, with calibres matching shell casings at the scene. It is unknown how the child accessed the weapons.
Initially, the boy provided a story that did not align with the evidence. He was later taken to the police station by a guardian, where he confessed to the crime. The motive for the killings remains unclear.
“We are still piecing the puzzle together right now, there is a lot of evidence that has been collected,” McIver said. “Who knows why someone would do something this malicious, and at that age.” The community is in mourning, McIver noted, adding, “Everybody knew Mr. Joe… There’s a sorrow when you know someone who’s been part of the community for so long and impacted so many lives.”
During the news conference, Cox praised Cornelius’ career again. “Joe Cornelius was more than just a public servant. He was a committed leader who dedicated many years to the service of Minden,” Cox said. “Joe’s efforts to improve Minden have left a lasting impact that will be remembered for years to come.” Minden, located about 30 miles east of Shreveport, has a population of just over 12,600.
What Other Media Are Saying
- AP News reports that an 11-year-old boy is suspected of using two guns to fatally shoot a former Louisiana mayor and his 31-year-old daughter, Keisha Miles, on Sunday.(read more)
- The New York Times reports on an 11-year-old boy charged with killing an 82-year-old former mayor and his daughter in Minden, Louisiana.(read more)
- US News reports an 11-year-old boy used two guns to kill an 82-year-old former mayor and his 31-year-old daughter in Louisiana.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Who was the 11-year-old boy accused of shooting?
The boy is accused of shooting Joe Cornelius Sr. and Keisha Miles.
What was Joe Cornelius Sr.’s role in Minden?
Joe Cornelius Sr. was a former longtime city councilman and interim mayor of Minden.
What charges is the boy facing?
The boy is charged with two counts of first-degree murder.
How was the boy related to the victims?
The boy was described as a relative of the victims.
What is the current status of the boy’s legal representation?
It is unclear if the boy has legal representation.
