Three Mississippi teens accused of killing a 6-year-old little boy on Thursday were denied bond on Monday morning during their first court appearance since their arrest.
USA Today reports that Dwan Wakefield and DeAllen Washington, both 17, and Byron McBride, 19, stood in front of a judge at the Madison County Justice Court, where they were denied bond for their capital murder charges. The three suspects are accused of stealing the boy’s mother’s car from a Kroger parking lot at around 1:30 a.m. on Thursday in Jackson, while Kingston was in the car. The child was shot multiple times. His body was found, still inside his mother’s care, around six hours later.
The Madison County District Attorney’s Office is pursuing the death penalty against McBride, who, according to Wakefield, was the one who pulled the trigger and killed Kingston. McBride’s father, Byron McBride Sr., screamed at reporters after the hearing. He claimed that his son was innocent and the accusations against him were baseless.
“My son did not kill that baby! He did not kill that baby, but y’all gonna kill my son!”
According to District Attorney Michael Guest, he’ll speak with the families before a final decision is made on whether to definitely pursue the death sentence.
“He is eligible. As the investigation concludes and we have a chance to look at everything and sit down and meet with the family, we’ll make that firm decision. I try to separate my personal opinions from my professional opinions as to what needs to be done in this case. I think there is a great desire to see justice served in this case and, if at the conclusion of all the evidence being gathered, it appears justice will be served by seeking the death penalty then my office will definitely go forward on that.
According to the Clarion Ledger, the victim’s mother, Ebony Archie, sat in court today with her mother, Ruby Archie, who consoled Ebony and whispered to her. Ebony Archer has been victim herself to numerous unsubstantiated rumors on social media. Last week, authorities urged the public to ignore speculation and rumors on social media, which can only exacerbate the problem.
None of the three suspects entered a plea today. All three showed up in red jumpsuits and were given a preliminary hearing date of June 26.
[Feature Photo: Handout]
