10-year-old boy fatally shoots former mayor in Louisiana

A tragic incident occurred in a north-west Louisiana town where a 10-year-old boy fatally shot Joe Cornelius Sr., an 82-year-old former mayor, and his 31-year-old daughter, Keisha Miles. The police chief, Jared McIver, reported that the boy confessed to the shootings, which took place after an argument that neighbors overheard, possibly related to credit card charges for video games. The bodies were discovered on a Sunday morning, both suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Joe Cornelius had a long history of public service, having served on the Minden city council and as interim mayor after the previous mayor's death in 2013. He was also a former sheriff's deputy and marshal, known for his leadership within the local Black community. Cornelius was involved in various community initiatives, including youth programs and local Black history observances, making significant contributions to the town. The investigation into the motive for the shooting is ongoing, with authorities yet to clarify the relationship between the boy and the victims. The community is in shock, grappling with the loss of a respected leader and the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. Neighbors reported hearing the argument before the gunfire, indicating a sudden escalation of conflict. Minden's current mayor, Nick Cox, expressed his sorrow over Cornelius's death, highlighting his dedication to the community and the personal friendship they shared. This incident raises serious concerns about youth access to firearms and the potential for violence in domestic disputes, prompting discussions on community safety and intervention strategies.