Elderly Mississippi Man Killed by Alleged Burglar Using His Own Gun

An 81-year-old Mississippi man was fatally shot with his own firearm while confronting an alleged burglar in his home, according to authorities.

Union County Sheriff Jimmy Edwards stated that the incident occurred around 4 a.m. Thursday when a suspect, identified as Eric Basco, allegedly broke into the home of Bobby and Peggy McGill. While McGill and his wife were asleep, the suspect entered their residence. A struggle ensued between McGill and Basco, during which Basco allegedly obtained McGill’s handgun and shot the homeowner multiple times. Bobby McGill died at the scene.

Peggy McGill managed to escape the home unharmed and contacted 911. Sheriff Edwards indicated that the primary motive for the break-in appeared to be burglary. Basco reportedly went into a bathroom within the residence and died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

However, investigators are examining a video captured the evening before the home invasion. The footage appears to show Basco walking near McGill’s home, making gestures, and shouting phrases that sound like "God is dead." Edwards noted that a cross and a sign reading "Jesus is Lord" were visible in Bobby McGill’s yard, prompting speculation about a potential religious element, though he stressed that the motive remains under investigation.

"It was a very sad, tragic thing, just for no reason," Edwards said. He added that Basco had no significant criminal history beyond minor traffic violations, suggesting a possible mental disturbance or altered state of mind.

Bobby McGill was remembered by his granddaughter as a devout Christian who deeply loved his family and his faith. She shared on social media that her grandfather lived his life as an example of his beliefs and frequently shared his faith with others.