Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Jackson, MS: Police search for man accused in double shooting One woman hurt; another killed

Kathleen Baydala
kbaydala@clarionledger.com

Jackson police are searching for a man suspected of critically wounding his ex-girlfriend and killing her friend in a shooting over the weekend.

Hardell Cornelius, 31, faces charges of murder and aggravated assault.

JPD spokesman Joseph Daughtry said a warrant was issued for Cornelius' arrest following the double shooting early Sunday morning at the Highland Square apartment complex at 1595 W. Highland Drive in west Jackson.

Investigators say they believe Cornelius entered the apartment of 39-year-old Pammy Taylor, his ex-girlfriend, and shot her shortly after midnight on Sunday. Police say Cornelius also shot Taylor's friend, 21-year-old Brittany Cheeks.

"It's our understanding that Cheeks was spending the night (with Taylor) so she could catch a ride to work," Daughtry said.

Both women were taken to the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Taylor was "rushed into surgery," and Cheeks was pronounced dead on arrival around 1 a.m. Sunday, Daughtry said.

Police are not disclosing what type of gun was used in the shooting. Daughtry said it has not been recovered.

Daughtry also said Cornelius has a prior record, though he would not elaborate.

No comments: