Child Charged in Murder of Former Mayor and Daughter

A former Louisiana mayor and his daughter were tragically killed by a 10-year-old boy following a dispute over video game credit card charges.

At a Glance

An 11-year-old boy faces murder charges for killing Joe Cornelius Sr. and his daughter, Keisha Miles
Joe Cornelius Sr. served as a mayor, city councilman, and sheriff’s deputy in Minden, Louisiana
The boy has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder, held on $500,000 bail
The motive remains under investigation
The boy confessed but the community is shocked due to the juvenile’s age

Tragic Events in Minden

In a tragedy that has sent shockwaves through Minden, Louisiana, an 11-year-old boy has been charged with murder after fatally shooting Joe Cornelius Sr., a former mayor, and his daughter, Keisha Miles. The incident reportedly stemmed from an argument over unauthorized video game credit card charges.

The young suspect now faces two counts of first-degree murder and is held on $500,000 bail. The police have not released his name due to his age but confirmed that he acted alone and used firearms found at the scene, heightening the community’s concern over youth violence.

Joe Cornelius Sr., who was a former mayor, city councilman, and sheriff’s deputy, was well-respected in Minden. Known for frequent visits to the police department and his sense of humor, his loss is deeply felt. The community, particularly shocked by the suspect’s young age, grapples with the reality of such violence hitting home.

“Who knows why someone would do something this malicious — and at that age,” Chief McIver said. “We are putting everything together and hopefully very soon we will have all the answers — more answers — as to the ‘why.’”

Investigation and Ongoing Concerns

Initial reports suggest the boy gave a false story before eventually confessing to the crime. Despite his confession, the motive behind this tragic act remains unknown. Police were alert to the scene by a 911 call from a third family member and recovered two firearms suspected to be the murder weapons. Surveillance of the area and testimonies from neighbors, who reported hearing an argument over credit card charges related to video game purchases, are crucial to the investigation.

Neighbors told local outlets they heard the former Louisiana mayor and the 10-year-old arguing, allegedly over credit card charges for video games. After that, they heard shots ring out. Police said the boy showed no remorse.
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Community’s Response

The community of Minden mourns the loss of Joe Cornelius Sr. and Keisha Miles. Mayor Nick Cox paid tribute to Cornelius’s service, highlighting his dedication and friendship. “Joe Cornelius’s years of service to Minden were marked by his commitment and dedication to the betterment of our community. On a personal note, I am grateful for his friendship and the many ways he supported me and others in our city.”

Concerns about video game influences on youth behavior have reignited debates on regulations to prevent unauthorized transactions. The absence of a clear motive and the suspect’s age further complicate the community’s efforts to seek justice. Louisiana law has provisions for juve.niles being tried as adults in violent crimes, but not for those under 14, leaving questions about the path to prosecution.

“Joe Cornelius’s years of service … were marked by his commitment and dedication to the betterment of our community. On a personal note, I am grateful for his friendship and the many ways he supported me and others in our city.” – Nick Cox, Minden Mayor

The tragic deaths of Joe Cornelius Sr. and his daughter Keisha Miles leave a void in their family and the community of Minden. Their deaths serve as a stark reminder of the urgency in addressing youth violence and the potential influences of video games on children.