A Mississippi woman faces murder charges after allegedly shooting her estranged husband outside a courthouse following divorce proceedings.
At a Glance
- Tanya Lindell Saucier charged with murder for shooting James Ray Saucier
- Incident occurred outside Pearl River County Chancery Courthouse after divorce hearing
- James Saucier was facing domestic violence charges for previously shooting Tanya
- Tanya’s attorney, State Rep. Jansen Owen, subdued her and attempted first aid
- 9mm handgun and shell casings recovered from the scene
Tragic Aftermath of Divorce Proceedings
In a shocking turn of events, Tanya Lindell Saucier has been arrested and charged with murder after allegedly fatally shooting her estranged husband, James Ray Saucier, outside the Pearl River County Chancery Courthouse in Poplarville, Mississippi. The incident occurred shortly after noon on a Tuesday, following the couple’s divorce proceedings, which were the only case on the docket that day.
According to reports, James Saucier was pronounced dead at the scene. Law enforcement quickly apprehended Tanya Saucier, who is now being held on a murder charge at the Lenoir Rowell Criminal Justice Center. Investigators recovered a 9mm handgun and multiple shell casings from the scene, providing crucial evidence for the case.
History of Domestic Violence
The tragic incident comes against a backdrop of previous domestic violence. James Saucier had been indicted in August on charges of aggravated assault and domestic violence with a deadly weapon. He was accused of shooting Tanya Saucier five times a year prior to this incident. His trial for these charges was scheduled for March 4, 2025.
The volatile nature of their relationship had led to the couple being scheduled to meet separately during the divorce proceedings. This precaution, however, did not prevent the tragic outcome that unfolded outside the courthouse.
Immediate Aftermath and Reactions
State Representative Jansen Owen, who was serving as Tanya Saucier’s attorney, played a crucial role in the immediate aftermath of the shooting. Owen reportedly subdued Tanya after the incident and attempted to administer first aid to James Saucier.
“Basically, I left the courthouse and she opened fire. I did ultimately subdue her at which point she made threats against me. I administered first aid as best I could to Mr. Saucier,” Jansen Owen said.
Owen strongly condemned the shooting, emphasizing the gravity of such an act in a public setting. James Saucier’s attorney, Don Rafferty, was also present during the incident. Rafferty recounted the sudden turn of events, stating, “I was handling some paperwork when things went crossways.”
Community Impact and Legal Proceedings
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving many struggling to comprehend the violent act. Family members of James Saucier expressed their dismay and frustration over the incident. Johanna Peterson, a family member, conveyed their state of mind, saying, “It’s confusing for us, tragic. The family is in shock, as well as frustrated and enraged.”
