Helena Malone, 61, Shoots and Kills Mother, Helen Plaisance, 79, Before Turning Gun on Herself in Apparent Murder-Suicide Outside Highland Community Hospital in Picayune, Mississippi
An unthinkable tragedy occurred on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at approximately 2:53 p.m., outside Highland Community Hospital in Picayune, Mississippi, leaving two women dead in what authorities have described as an apparent murder-suicide. The victims have been identified as Helena Malone, 61, and her mother, Helen Plaisance, 79.
According to local reports, Malone made a distress call to authorities, stating that she had just shot her mother. When law enforcement arrived at the scene, they found both women in a car parked near the emergency room entrance of the hospital. Tragically, Malone turned the gun on herself as officers approached the vehicle.
Emergency responders immediately transported both women to the hospital, where they were pronounced dead. The preliminary investigation suggests that Malone had been struggling with significant medical issues, including an untreated malignant brain tumor, which may have contributed to her actions.
Pearl River County Coroner Derek Turnage shared his observations with local media, indicating that Malone’s cognitive state had likely been severely impacted by the progression of the tumor, which had gone untreated since June. This medical condition may have played a role in the tragic events that unfolded.
The community is still reeling from the shock of this devastating incident, and authorities have initiated a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. Law enforcement and hospital personnel have urged the public to offer prayers and support to the affected family and first responders.
As the investigation continues, officials are working to piece together the events leading up to the tragedy. The emotional toll on the family and those who witnessed the incident remains immense, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
In conclusion, the tragic loss of Helena Malone and her mother, Helen Plaisance, has left the community in shock and grief. The apparent murder-suicide has raised questions about the potential impact of untreated medical conditions on cognitive state and behavior.
As the investigation unfolds, the community will be watching closely, and support will be essential for those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.
