Authorities in Mississippi are currently searching for Sammy Patrick, a man accused of sexually assaulting and killing a 73-year-old woman before setting her body on fire. The victim, Dee Eady, was found dead from a gunshot wound at her home in Scott County on Dec. 30, 2023.
According to Scott County Sheriff Mike Lee, Patrick is also suspected of robbing a Subway and stealing a truck and ATV. The crime spree allegedly began on Dec. 20 when he stole an ATV and burglarized a vehicle, followed by another car burglary in Newton.
Eady was reportedly on the phone with a relative when she heard her dogs barking, prompting her to investigate. The relative found her body under the carport, and surveillance footage captured the incident despite one camera being disabled.
Investigators are working to establish the relationship between Patrick and Eady, but it is believed that he lived nearby and may have worked for her late husband. They have obtained a warrant for his arrest on a capital murder charge.
On New Year’s Day, Patrick allegedly robbed a Subway in Woodville and was found to be driving a truck stolen from Newton.
Mississippi Highway Patrol, Louisiana State Police, and U.S. Marshals are involved in the search, and authorities have urged the public to report any information leading to Patrick’s arrest.
Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact the Scott County Sheriff’s Office at 601-469-1511, and a $5,000 reward is being offered for information leading to his capture.