10-year-old boy allegedly killed man and his daughter after alleged argument over video games

MINDEN, Louisiana (KSLA/Gray News) – Police in Louisiana have arrested a 10-year-old boy who allegedly admitted to shooting a former city official and his adult daughter.

Minden police responded to a report that bodies were found in a home at 6:30 a.m. Sunday. They found two people with multiple gunshot wounds. The victims were later identified as 82-year-old Joe Cornelius Sr. and his daughter, 31-year-old Keisha Miles, according to KSLA.

“About eight shots. Pow, pow, pow and then pow, pow, pow,” a neighbor recalled.

The investigation led to the arrest of a ten-year-old boy who reportedly confessed to shooting the victims.

“Joe started arguing with him. The kid just pulled out a gun. I mean, Joe used to be a sheriff, so he has guns because he worked for the sheriff's department, and the kid knows where it is. It's a sad thing,” the neighbor said.

Neighbors report that there was an argument between Cornelius and the ten-year-old over credit card fees for video games.

“I think that's what happened. He was arguing with him. I heard them yelling and stuff,” the neighbor said. “That was my cousin. I hate that that happened during a game. I don't think that was right.”

The neighbor says the boy has autism, but police have not confirmed this claim or the reason for the argument. The investigation is ongoing.

Cornelius was a former city councilor of Minden and former interim mayor.

“He was well respected in the community,” the neighbor said. “He was with the sheriff. He was mayor for a while. He worked at the funeral home and stuff. He was a good man.”

Current Mayor Nick Cox released the following statement on social media regarding Cornelius’ death:

It is with deep sadness that we mourn the loss of Joe Cornelius Sr., a former long-time Minden City Councilman and former appointed Mayor of Minden.

Joe Cornelius' years of service in Minden were marked by his dedication and commitment to the betterment of our community. Personally, I am grateful for his friendship and the many ways in which he supported me and others in our city.

During this incredibly difficult time, I ask that we all keep Joe's family in our thoughts and prayers. May they find comfort and strength in the midst of this tragedy.

Let us come together as a community to honor Joe's memory and support each other during this time of grief.

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