MISSISSIPPI – An 81-year-old Mississippi man was fatally shot with his own gun during a home invasion, and a detail uncovered by investigators has the sheriff questioning whether religion played a role. Authorities say Eric Basco broke into Bobby McGill’s home around 4 a.m. and allegedly shot him during a struggle. McGill’s wife, Peggy, escaped and called 911. The motive remains unclear.
Intruder Breaks Into McGill Home Around 4 a.m.
According to authorities, Basco forced his way into the McGill home in the early morning hours. A struggle broke out between the intruder and Bobby McGill inside the house. The break-in happened while it was still dark outside. Basco is accused of breaking in while the couple was home.
During the struggle, McGill was allegedly shot with his own gun. He died from his injuries. It is unclear how the intruder gained control of the weapon. Investigators have not said how Basco entered the home. Gun safety experts note that intruders can sometimes take weapons from homeowners during close struggles.
Wife Peggy McGill Escapes and Calls 911
Peggy McGill managed to escape from the home during the attack. She then called 911 to report what was happening. Her quick call brought deputies to the scene.
Family photos show Bobby and Peggy smiling together on their porch. His death has devastated loved ones and the local community. Bobby McGill was 81 years old. The killing has left many in the area shaken.
Video Allegedly Shows Basco Shouting God Is Dead Night Before
Investigators uncovered video from the night before the attack that appears to show Basco shouting that God is dead. The video was recorded about 1.5 miles from the McGill home. Investigators have not released the full video publicly.
The McGills had a cross and a Jesus is Lord sign displayed in their yard. Those details led Sheriff Jimmy Edwards to question whether religion may have played a role in the attack. The yard signs were visible to anyone passing the home. Edwards has not said whether the case will be treated as a hate crime.
Sheriff Jimmy Edwards Says Motive Remains Unclear
Despite the religious signs, Edwards said the motive for the attack remains unclear. Investigators are continuing to examine the video and other evidence. It is not yet known whether Basco knew the couple. Authorities have not said whether anything was taken from the home.
The charges Basco faces were not detailed in the post. He is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court, and more information is expected as the investigation continues. Fox News was among the outlets reporting on the case.
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