It’s been three months since a 43-year-old mother was gunned down in her home on Vivian Merritt Street, and there’s been no arrest in the case.

That’s a tough reality, not only for the family of Bridget Hall, but also for the neighborhood and surrounding community. Knowing a murderer could still be in our midst is unnerving. That the killing happened so close to Mamie Martin Elementary School makes the entire situation that much more troubling.

Chief Bobby Bell has pleaded with the public to come forward if they have information about the case. We’ll do the same. If you’ve heard something, or know something, please call police.

Anyone with information can also call Crimestoppers at 601-823-0150. Tips leading to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward up to $1,000.

We assume this crime is the top priority at the police department, but Bell and his department need the community’s help.

We’ve heard from some in the community that a reward may be necessary to get those with information to talk. Those folks have even said they would donate to a reward fund.

We’ve said it before, but it’s worth repeating: If that’s what it takes to get people talking, then the police department should create such a fund. If the department needs help to fund such an effort, we’ll gladly help get the word out. We’ll gladly help raise funds if needed.

We’ve heard from so many people who want to do something in the face of this violent summer, but feel helpless. Maybe raising funds for a reward would help bring those individuals together, and in turn, help solve this horrendous crime.

 

Much of this editorial was published in August, one month after the murder. We’ll continue to use this space to encourage those with information to come forward.