A Mississippi man wanted in connection with three shootings that killed his mother and two sisters has died after being shot during a shootout with state troopers in Arizona, authorities said Monday. .
Police Chief Brian Myers said in an email that Ridgeland authorities north of Jackson discovered the woman's body in her home on Mother's Day.
Police say they believe he was shot inside the home on Saturday.
Myers identified the victim as 76-year-old Ida Thomas Welch. Vicki Renee Welch, 56 years old. Crystal Lynn Welch (42). He said it was discovered after the family claimed welfare checks.
Myers said police have obtained an arrest warrant for the murder of Ida Welch's son, Ivory James Welch III.
Myers said Ivory Welch fled the state and was found by Arizona State Police on Monday. He opened fire on officers and was fatally shot, Myers said.
A spokeswoman for the Arizona Department of Public Safety said only that an officer was involved in the shooting in Greenlee County, near the New Mexico state line. The ministry said it expected to release further information on Monday afternoon.
Further details about the shooting or a possible motive are not available at this time.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Mississippi said in a statement that Crystal Welch is the chair of its board of directors. She had been in the role since last year.
“We are unable to process today's news,” Executive Director Jarvis Dortch said in a statement. “She always asked what more she could do to support our team and our work. Our staff and Board of Directors are proud of her commitment to equality and justice. She will be forever grateful and her zest for life, infectious spirit and enthusiasm will be missed.”
