A tragic shooting spree in rural Mississippi on Friday night left six individuals dead, including a seven-year-old girl. The suspect, Daricka M. Moore, 24, has been charged with multiple counts of murder following the violent incidents that occurred at three different locations.
The series of shootings took place in an area characterized by fields, woods, and modest homes, approximately 125 miles (200 kilometers) northeast of Jackson. According to authorities, Moore began his rampage by killing his father, Glenn Moore, 67, his brother, Quinton Moore, 33, and his uncle, Willie Ed Guines, 55, at the family’s mobile home in western Clay County.
After these initial killings, Moore reportedly stole his brother’s truck and drove to a cousin’s house, where he attempted to commit sexual battery against his cousin’s daughter, a seven-year-old girl. Authorities stated that he then shot and killed her. Clay County Sheriff Eddie Scott remarked, “I don’t know what kind of motive you could have to kill a 7-year-old.” Witnesses indicated that Moore also threatened another child, though that individual was not harmed.
Following the incident at his cousin’s residence, Moore traveled to the Apostolic Church of The Lord Jesus, where he broke into a home, killing the church pastor, Rev. Barry Bradley, and his brother, Samuel Bradley. The Bradleys frequently spent weekends at the church, located nearby.
Moore was apprehended at a police roadblock in Cedarbluff just before midnight, shortly after the shootings began. He is currently held without bail at the Clay County jail in West Point, facing serious charges that could lead to the death penalty. Clay County District Attorney Scott Colom confirmed his intention to pursue this course of action, citing the severity of the crimes. He stated, “Six people, one night, several different scenes, it’s about as bad as it gets.”
Investigations into the motive for Moore’s actions are ongoing, as authorities continue to interview him. Sheriff Scott emphasized the shock and grief felt within the community, noting, “This has really shaken our community.”
The state medical examiner is conducting autopsies on the victims, and investigators are working to determine the origins of the firearms used in the attacks. Moore is expected to make his initial court appearance on March 24, 2024, where he will likely be appointed a public defender.
Family members of Moore are reportedly devastated by the events, as they come to terms with the loss of their loved ones. The violent nature of these acts has left many in the community searching for answers and grappling with the aftermath of this horrific incident.
