In the small community of Cedarbluff, Mississippi, the life of 7-year-old Mikylia Guines was tragically cut short on Friday, January 9, 2026. A bright and joyful child known for her infectious laughter and love of dancing, Mikylia was a student at Churchill Elementary School where she was cherished by her classmates and teachers. Born on September 5, 2018, she was a beloved daughter, sister, and friend whose vibrant spirit touched all who knew her.
The devastating events of that January evening would leave a permanent scar on the community and her family.
The horror began to unfold when law enforcement responded to a 911 call regarding a gunshot victim. They arrived to find a scene of unimaginable violence where Mikylia had been fatally shot. The alleged perpetrator was identified as her 24-year-old second cousin, Daricka Moore. According to authorities, Moore forced his way into the home and, in addition to shooting Mikylia, also attempted to commit a sexual battery against her mother. Another child in the home was also shot but sustained only minor injuries. Mikylia's mother, Lashanna Guines, witnessed the horrific death of her daughter in the presence of her other children.
Daricka Moore was apprehended by police following a massive manhunt and has since been charged with a litany of violent crimes, including three counts of capital murder for the deaths of Mikylia and two family friends, Barry and Samuel Bradley. He also faces three counts of first-degree murder for the deaths of his own father, brother, and uncle, which are expected to be upgraded to capital murder. Additionally, Moore is charged with attempted capital murder, attempted sexual battery, burglary of a dwelling, and two counts of felony taking of a motor vehicle. In his initial court appearance, Moore pleaded not guilty to all charges and was denied bond. The judge ordered a mental health evaluation for the accused, and the district attorney's office has indicated its intention to seek the death penalty. The case against Daricka Moore is a complex and tragic one, involving the deaths of six individuals and leaving a community to grapple with the senseless loss of life, particularly that of a vibrant 7-year-old girl whose future was stolen.
