In the quiet community of Bogue Chitto, Mississippi, a late-night call on Saturday, May 27, 2017, set in motion a tragic chain of events that would end in a devastating loss of life. Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputy Donald William Durr, a 36-year-old male, was the first to respond to a domestic disturbance call at a residence on Lee Drive. A two-year veteran of the sheriff's office, he arrived at the scene around 11:30 p.m., stepping into a volatile situation that would ultimately claim his
life and the lives of seven other people.
Upon his arrival, Deputy Durr was fatally shot by a male suspect. The gunman then proceeded to murder three women at the same location. This was only the beginning of a violent spree, as the shooter moved on to two other locations in the Brookhaven area, where he killed four more individuals, including two juveniles. The community was thrown into a state of shock and fear as the manhunt for the perpetrator began.
The suspect was identified as Willie Cory Godbolt, then 35 years old. He was apprehended the following morning after a massive law enforcement response. In the aftermath, the profound impact on the small community became clear. Deputy Durr was remembered as a dedicated officer, a husband, and a father to his 11-year-old son. Before his career in law enforcement, he had been a youth minister, known for his passion for helping children.
Willie Cory Godbolt was charged with one count of capital murder for the death of Deputy Durr and seven counts of first-degree murder for the other victims. During his trial in February 2020, harrowing details of the night emerged. The jury ultimately found Godbolt guilty on all counts. He was sentenced to death for the murder of Deputy Durr and received life sentences for the other seven murders, bringing a measure of justice to the families and the community that had been so deeply wounded by his actions.
