POPLARVILLE, Mississippi – The estranged wife of a Mississippi man is in custody after allegedly fatally shooting him outside a courthouse after their divorce was finalized, authorities said.
The shooting occurred just before 1 p.m. Tuesday at the entrance to the Pearl River County Courthouse in Poplarville, according to the sheriff's office. The victim was identified as James Ray Saucier, 62. His wife, Tanya Saucier, 49, was arrested after the shooting and is being held at the Lenore Lowell Criminal Justice Center in Poplarville on suspicion of murder.
James Saucier's attorney, Don Rafferty, said the couple had just finished divorce proceedings when the shooting occurred.
“I was doing some paperwork when things came to a crossroads,” Rafferty told WLOX-TV.
Tanya Saucier's attorney, state Rep. Jansen Owen (R-Hattiesburg), said his client was leaving the building when he opened fire.
“Basically, I walked out of the courthouse and she opened fire. I eventually subdued her, but at that point she made threats against me,” Owen said. . “I gave Mr. Saucier the best first aid I could.''
Family member Joanna Peterson told WVUE-TV the family is distraught over what happened.
“It's confusing and tragic for us,” Peterson said. “The family is shocked, frustrated and furious.”
James Saucier was charged in August with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and domestic violence, according to court documents. The suspect is accused of shooting Tanya Saucier five times a year ago, including once in the face.
“My client said he was defending himself,” Rafferty said.
