A shocking rampage in rural Mississippi left six people dead, including a seven-year-old girl. Authorities arrested Daricka M. Moore, 24, after a series of shootings that took place on the night of March 15, 2024. Moore allegedly targeted family members and a local church pastor across three locations in Clay County.
The violence began at a mobile home where Moore is believed to have killed his father, Glenn Moore, 67, his brother, Quinton Moore, 33, and his uncle, Willie Ed Guines, 55. Following these initial killings, Moore reportedly stole his brother’s truck and drove several miles to a cousin’s house. There, he attempted to commit sexual battery against his cousin’s daughter, a seven-year-old girl, before fatally shooting her.
Details of the Incident
In a press conference, Clay County Sheriff Eddie Scott confirmed that witnesses indicated Moore was the sole shooter and that no other injuries were reported. The sheriff expressed disbelief at the violence, stating, “I don’t know what kind of motive you could have to kill a 7-year-old.” He noted that another child was present during the incident but was not harmed.
After the attack on his cousin’s family, Moore proceeded to the Apostolic Church of The Lord Jesus, where he broke into a residence and shot both the pastor, Rev. Barry Bradley, and his brother, Samuel Bradley. The two men typically spent weekends at the church, located in a small community near Columbus. Some family members of Moore attended this church, further complicating the tragedy.
Moore was apprehended at a police roadblock shortly before midnight, approximately four and a half hours after the first shooting. He was found in possession of a rifle and a handgun, and authorities are investigating how he obtained the weapons.
Legal Proceedings and Community Impact
Moore is currently being held without bail at the Clay County jail and faces multiple murder charges. Clay County District Attorney Scott Colom announced plans to seek the death penalty. He stated, “Six people, one night, several different scenes, it’s about as bad as it gets.” Colom anticipates that Moore will be assigned a public defender during his initial court appearance, scheduled for March 18, 2024.
The state’s medical examiner is conducting autopsies on the victims as the community comes to grips with the tragedy. Sheriff Scott highlighted the overwhelming grief experienced by Moore’s surviving relatives, adding, “This has really shaken our community.”
The violent events have raised numerous questions regarding the motivations behind such an act and the implications for the families affected. As investigations continue, the community remains in mourning, grappling with the aftermath of this devastating incident.
