Mississippi Woman Held Without Bond for Alleged Courthouse Murder
A Mississippi woman accused of fatally shooting her ex-husband moments after finalizing their divorce will remain in custody after a judge denied her request for bond.
Tanya Saucier, 49, is charged with murder in the death of 62-year-old James Ray Saucier, who was gunned down outside the Pearl River County Courthouse on December 17, 2024. Prosecutors say the attack happened in broad daylight and in full view of multiple witnesses — including both of the couple’s divorce attorneys.
Judge Cites “Special Danger” and Flight Risk
On Tuesday, Judge Steve Simpson denied Saucier’s bid for bond, agreeing with prosecutors that she poses both a significant danger to the public and a potential flight risk. Pearl River County District Attorney Hal Kitrell confirmed that Saucier has since been transferred to the Lamar County Jail, where she will remain until trial.
Volatile Divorce Proceedings
Authorities say the Sauciers’ divorce had been marked by extreme tension. Proceedings were reportedly so volatile that the court required the couple to appear at separate times to avoid confrontation.
The December 17 meeting was not part of the original schedule. Investigators say Tanya Saucier arrived at the courthouse around 10 a.m. with her attorney, Jansen Owen. Roughly an hour later, James Ray Saucier arrived with his attorney, Don Rafferty.
The final paperwork was signed just before noon. Moments later, James Ray exited the courthouse, unaware that his ex-wife was allegedly lying in wait.
Fatal Shooting in Public View
According to police, Tanya Saucier was standing outside with a 9 mm handgun when her ex-husband stepped into the open. Witnesses say she opened fire, hitting him multiple times in front of lawyers, courthouse staff, and civilians going about their business.
Pearl River County Sheriff’s Office Lead Investigator Maj. Scott Allee told local media that the shooting unfolded almost immediately after James Ray left the building. Courthouse security officers quickly detained Saucier at the scene.
Attorney Owen, who witnessed the killing, called it “unjustifiable.” Speaking to WLOX, he also criticized the lack of courthouse security in Mississippi, warning, “We have a really big problem throughout the state with lacking courthouse security.”
Aftermath and Legal Proceedings
James Ray Saucier died at the scene from his injuries. The violent public nature of the killing shocked the community and underscored long-standing concerns over safety measures in local courthouses.
Authorities have not revealed a motive beyond the acrimonious divorce, but prosecutors are framing the incident as a calculated act carried out with clear intent.
Saucier’s transfer to the Lamar County Jail is intended to ensure both security and impartiality as the high-profile case moves toward trial. Prosecutors are expected to seek a lengthy prison sentence if she is convicted.
Community and Legal Reaction
The killing has prompted renewed discussions about security protocols at courthouses across Mississippi. Legal professionals say metal detectors, armed guards, and stricter entry procedures could help prevent similar incidents in the future.
For now, Tanya Saucier remains behind bars without bond, her fate to be determined in the courtroom she once entered to end her marriage — and allegedly left as an accused killer.
