Jackson, Mississippi – Trial dates have been scheduled for a man and a woman accused of kidnapping two young girls from Louisiana and murdering one of them in Mississippi in June 2024.
Daniel Callihan, 36, and Victoria Cox, 32, both residents of Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana, allegedly abducted 4-year-old Erin Brunett and her 6-year-old sister, Jalie Brunett, from their home in Loranger, Louisiana, before bringing them to Mississippi.
The girls were discovered in the woods near the 3900 block of Boozier Drive in South Jackson, over 120 miles away from their hometown. Jalie was found alive, but sadly, Erin was found deceased as a result of asphyxiation.
Prior to the abduction, Callihan is suspected of murdering the girls’ mother, Callie Brunett, in Loranger. Court records indicate that Callihan had a tumultuous relationship with Callie and was accused of stabbing her multiple times.
Callie’s cause of death was determined to be a result of multiple sharp force injuries sustained from stab wounds to her head, neck, chest, abdomen, and back. She also displayed defensive wounds on her arms, according to the Tangipahoa Parish Coroner’s Office.
Facing charges of kidnapping resulting in death and transportation of a minor with intent to commit criminal sexual activity, Callihan is set to stand trial in federal court in New Orleans on March 10. He has pleaded not guilty to these charges.
In addition to the federal charges, Callihan also faces state charges in Mississippi and Louisiana, where he could potentially face the death penalty if convicted.
Furthermore, Cox, the alleged accomplice, has been indicted on charges of capital murder, kidnapping, and sexual battery. She has pleaded not guilty to all charges and also faces the possibility of the death penalty if found guilty.
While Cox remains in jail in Hinds County, Callihan has been extradited to Louisiana to face the pending legal proceedings.
The heinous nature of the crimes committed by Callihan and Cox has shocked both Mississippi and Louisiana authorities, with Jackson Police Chief Joseph Wade describing the events as “horrific” and “sickening” during a press conference following the discovery of the girls.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of these tragic events, the trials of Callihan and Cox are expected to bring some measure of closure to the grieving families involved.