An elderly Mississippi couple remembered as “the sweetest” pair in their community was allegedly killed by a teenage burglary suspect who later opened fire on police during a tense six-hour standoff, authorities said.
Billy Blair, 74, and his wife, Virginia Carol Blair, 71, were found dead after 17-year-old Cordarius Hobbs allegedly broke into their Mendenhall home last Wednesday, according to WLBT.
Hobbs has since been charged with capital murder.
Police went to the couple’s home just after noon for a welfare check after worried relatives could not reach them. When officers arrived, they reportedly found the front door open and the burglary still in progress.
Authorities said officers were met with gunfire.
It remains unclear how long Hobbs had been inside the Blairs’ home before police arrived.
During the standoff, Hobbs allegedly told officers he would surrender at the front door, but then escaped through the back of the house, officials said.
Bailey Martin, a spokesperson for the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, said Hobbs ran from the property after officers fired tear gas.
Authorities said he allegedly fired at four officers and an infant during the confrontation. Rankin County Sheriff Bryan Bailey said those targeted were “pinned down by gunfire.”
Hobbs was shot by a trooper during the standoff and suffered injuries that were not life-threatening. He was later arrested after a chase.
The Blairs, who ran a tire business, were beloved in their community and active in their church.
Their pastor, Andy Fullington, described them as “the sweetest couple” and said they had “such a beautiful spirit about them.”
“They walked with the Lord. They have left behind a beautiful example, a shining light,” Fullington told WLBT. “We’re going to miss them so much, but we know where they are and that gives us great comfort.”
Virginia Blair had served as a church pianist for 30 years. Fullington said she was always encouraging, even after a sermon that did not go perfectly.
“Even if it was a bad sermon, even messed up, she was just a Godly woman who had such encouragement, and she would always share some encouraging words,” he said.
Family friend Buddy Keyes told WJTV that the couple was deeply devoted to each other, their faith and their community.
“The Blairs were just wonderful people,” Keyes said. “They loved the Lord, had a wonderful marriage and were very devoted to God, their church and the community.”
Hobbs appeared in court last Friday and is facing 13 charges, including burglary, capital murder and multiple assault offenses.
In Mississippi, capital murder can carry the death penalty for suspects over 18. Juveniles can face up to 50 years in prison.
Hobbs pleaded not guilty to all charges. He was denied bond and is expected back in court next month.
Life without parole.This might stop other idiots doing the same
He should get the death penalty but at 17 life in prison. He is useless to society. With a record he’ll never get a job and will prey on the public for money when he gets out Maybe even kill again. Can we take that chance?