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Arrest made in highway shooting case
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| By:Theron Fly |
May 18, 2012 |
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A man authorities identified as James D. Willie, of Sardis, has been arrested in Tunica County in connection with the highway shootings in Tunica County and Panola County.
Tunica County Sheriff K.C. Hamp said during a press conference today that Willie was arrested after a woman accused him of kidnapping and rape. Ballistics tests found on a handgun in Willie's possession confirmed that the gun was same one used in the shootings, authorities said.
No bond has been set at this time, Hamp said that more than 148 man hours were spent on the case.
According to Hamp, the motives for the shootings were drugs and robbery. "I can't confirm or deny that he was on drugs at the time, but we have information that he uses them," Hamp said.
Willie has a criminal record for burglary, and Hamp said that he had spent eight years in the Mississippi Department of Corrections.
"It's a great relief for the public. They look to us for guidance and leadership," Hamp said. "I want to thank the task force standing with me today for their hard work on this case."
Panola County Sheriff Dennis Darby also applauded the community law enforcement for coming together on the case.
"In 30 years of law enforcement, I've never seen this type of camaraderie in law enforcement at all levels," Darby said. "I want to say thank you. This is a glorious day."
Willie's arrest comes on the heels of two recent highway shootings.
The first shooting occurred May 8, on Interstate 55 in Panola County near Pope, when a 74-year-old man from Nebraska was shot to death. He was reportedly headed to Florida to pick up his grandson. The second occurred days later, on May 11, when a Hernando woman was found dead on Highway 713 in Tunica County.
When the shootings were determined to be linked, local law enforcement agencies posted warnings urging drivers to take extra caution.
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©The Democrat 2013
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