In Meridian, Mississippi, a 49-year-old Black / African American woman named Cristal Grace Edwin, a former housekeeping employee at the Econo Lodge Motel, was tragically killed on September 3, 2024. Her life was cut short by gun violence near the intersection of 8th Street and 30th Avenue.
In the days that followed, the Meridian Police Department launched an intensive investigation to bring the person responsible for Ms. Edwin's death to justice. Their efforts led them to a suspect just two days later. On September 5, 2024, officers spotted the individual riding a bicycle at the intersection of 5th Avenue and Old Marion Road. When the officers approached, the suspect attempted to flee on foot, leading to a short pursuit. The suspect was apprehended, and a firearm was recovered at the scene.
Funeral services for Ms. Edwin were held on September 21, 2024, at the Chapel of Enterprise Funeral Home in Meridian. She is survived by her father, Willie Grace of Meridian; a brother, Terry D. Grace of Jackson, Tennessee; and two sisters, Wilhamine Walker and Tresia Adams, both of Meridian. Her sudden and violent death has left a deep void in the lives of her family and friends, who continue to mourn her loss.
