Hattiesburg Police Investigating Murder-Suicide After Three Found Dead in Seventh Avenue Home

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (BuzzReport) — Authorities have ruled the deaths of three people found in a Hattiesburg home Tuesday afternoon the result of a murder-suicide.

According to the Hattiesburg Police Department, officers responded to a welfare check at a residence on Seventh Avenue, where they discovered two adults and a child deceased inside the home.

The adult victims were identified as Thomas O’Neil, 37, and Brianna Bruno, 32. A 3-year-old child was also found at the scene. The child’s identity is not being released.

Police said all three victims died from gunshot wounds. Investigators have determined that the deaths of O’Neil and the child were homicides, while Bruno’s death has been ruled a suicide.

No additional details about the circumstances leading up to the incident have been released. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not indicated whether there is any danger to the public.

Officials emphasized the importance of mental health resources for individuals experiencing a crisis. Anyone in need of immediate assistance can contact Mississippi’s crisis stabilization unit at (888) 339-7772 or call or text 988, the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Individuals may also seek help by going directly to a nearby hospital for immediate mental health support.

This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.