In the quiet community of Coldwater, Mississippi, a shocking act of violence shattered the peace on February 17, 2023, ending the life of 60-year-old Debra Sue Crum. That day, her ex-husband, Richard Dale Crum, 52, began a shooting rampage that would ultimately claim the lives of six people. The violent spree began at a convenience store in nearby Arkabutla before reaching the home Debra shared with her fiancé, George Drane.
Richard Crum forced his way into the residence, armed with a
shotgun and two handguns. Inside, he confronted the couple, striking Drane in the head with the butt of his gun. He then shot his ex-wife. After reloading his weapon, he shot her again at point-blank range, killing her instantly in her home. The brutal attack left Drane injured and dazed as he witnessed the life of the woman he loved come to a violent end.
Following the murder of his ex-wife, Richard Crum continued his deadly path, killing two handymen outside his own home, followed by his stepfather and his stepfather's sister in a neighboring residence. Law enforcement eventually apprehended him at his home without incident.
Richard Dale Crum was taken into custody and initially charged with one count of capital murder, with authorities indicating more charges were forthcoming. The state of Mississippi later announced its intention to seek the death penalty in his case. However, in a subsequent turn of events, a judge deemed Richard Dale Crum incompetent to stand trial. He was ordered to be committed to a state mental health facility for treatment and evaluation to determine if he could one day be considered mentally fit to face the multiple capital murder charges against him.
