Katelyn Beard: Missing Teen Found Dead, Suspect In Custody


Katelyn Beard, 17, was found dead in Madison County, Mississippi. Authorities confirmed the teen was shot by her abductor. Following the grim discovery, DeWayne Thompson, 19, was arrested and charged with aggravated assault, auto theft and kidnapping. He is also facing charges of murder.

Beard was last seen driving through east Jackson Sunday morning between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. Hours later, local authorities discovered the teen’s abandoned vehicle.

Jackson Police Chief Lee Vance said “witness accounts” and “some physical evidence at the scene” indicate Katelyn Beard was shot and killed amid a carjacking attempt.

Authorities believe the teen was taken to an abandoned home, where she was eventually shot. Her body was moved to a remote location following the shooting.

As reported by MSN News, Thompson was identified as a suspect early in the investigation. In an Amber Alert, issued by the Jackson Police Department and Mississippi Highway Patrol, authorities stated that Thompson was “considered armed and dangerous.” They were also concerned, as the missing teen was obviously in need of medical attention.

DeWayne Thompson was eventually discovered hiding inside an abandoned home. Following his initial arrest, the suspect reportedly assisted in the search for the missing teen. Witnesses said Thompson led detectives to a wooded area near Pocahontas. Authorities were later spotted carrying clothing out of the woods.

It has now been confirmed that Katelyn Beard’s body was discovered in a wooded area near Darden Road. Authorities confirmed the teen’s clothing was also discovered near the scene.

Although authorities believe Beard was shot, a coroner was called to the scene to confirm the cause of death. It is unclear whether the teen was dead before or after she was moved to the wooded area.

According to reports, the 17-year-old girl was abducted and killed during a carjacking attempt. It is unclear whether Katelyn Beard knew her attacker prior to Sunday’s incident. Authorities have not explained why the teen was driving through Jackson at such an early hour.

DeWayne Thompson remains incarcerated for the assault, kidnapping and death of Katelyn Beard. Unfortunately, numerous questions remain.

As reported by Clarion-Ledger, the teen was abducted and killed during a carjacking attempt. It is unclear whether Beard knew her attacker prior to Sunday’s incident. Authorities have not explained why the teen was driving through Jackson at such an early hour.

With the discovery of Katelyn Beard’s body, her family may have some degree of closure. However, they will certainly continue to feel an immense loss.

[Image via WREQ]

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