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James Blair, long time law enforcement member, was shot and killed Friday, June 12, 2020, around 3:30 PM near the Region 8 building in Mendenhall which is located near Highway 13.
The suspect in the killing is Joaquin Steven Blackwell of 149 Mangum Road Magee, MS. He is described as a black 22 year old male who is 5’8” tall and weighs around 175 pounds with brown eyes and black hair.
James Blair was 77 years old and continued to remain in law enforcement because he was raising his 3 grandsons whose mother had died. Mr. Blair was loved by the students at Simpson Central School where he was the crossing guard for years. He regularly transported prisoners to Region 8 as well as the Simpson General Hospital ER. Deputy Blair was loved by everyone who knew him. He was a kind dedicated man.
Joaquin Blackwell is still on the loose and is considered armed and dangerous.
Deputy James Blair, EOW 06/12/20
He had been a law enforcement officer as long as anyone could remember. A school resource officer, he knew all the children. Having been around for so long, he knew the community. And his brothers in blue looked up to him for his extensive experience and institutional knowledge.
A relative told us he was still working at age 77 because he was raising three grandchildren whose mother passed away.
James Blair leaves behind a wife and three grandchildren and countless others who loved him for his kindness.
MageeNews.com is an online news website covering Simpson and surrounding counties as well as the State of Mississippi.
Texas sends Condolences to the family and community members.💜🙏🏽🕊
I am praying for his wife and grand children. His daughter was my sister-in-law. Years ago he graciously dug my mother-in-law’s grave
to help the family save on expenses. He was a very kind and generous man. Rita Douglas – Fruitdale, Alabama
I will pray for the families of the victims and the suspect. My heart goes out to them all, especially to Deputy Blair’s wife and grandchildren.
My deepest sympathy to his family.