Drew, Mississippi — April 24, 2025
In a tragedy that has shaken the small community of Drew, Mississippi to its core, three beautiful lives were lost far too soon. Aquilla Wallace, a loving mother of two, along with her daughters Kamaya Sims and Bromeshia Sims, were killed in their home in an act of devastating violence that leaves behind grief, sorrow, and countless questions.
Aquilla Wallace, 40, and her daughters Kamaya, 19, and Bromeshia, 18, were confirmed dead on Thursday, April 24. Their loss is not only a personal heartbreak for their family and loved ones but a community-wide tragedy that has deeply affected everyone who knew them.
A Mother’s Devotion, A Family’s Bond
To know Aquilla Wallace was to know love. She was a pillar of strength and selflessness, working tirelessly to provide for her daughters. Friends recall her unwavering dedication to her family—raising her girls with compassion, discipline, and unconditional love.
Her eldest, Kamaya, had just stepped into young adulthood with dreams of becoming a nurse. A quiet soul, she carried a deep sense of empathy and was known by classmates and family as a gentle listener with a heart for helping others.
Her younger sister, Bromeshia, a recent high school graduate, dreamed of becoming a teacher. Energetic, funny, and outgoing, she loved music and dancing and always found ways to make others laugh. Together, the three formed a close-knit household—supporting each other, loving each other, and walking through life side-by-side.
“They were each other’s world,” said family friend and neighbor Denise Holloway. “You never saw one without the others.”
The Incident That Shattered a Community
Authorities responded to the Wallace-Sims home in Drew on Thursday morning after receiving an emergency call. Upon arrival, officers discovered the lifeless bodies of Aquilla, Kamaya, and Bromeshia. The Sunflower County Coroner later confirmed their deaths.
While the details remain under investigation, the brutality of the scene has left even seasoned officers shaken.
Shortly after the murders, a police chase involving three individuals connected to the crime unfolded in nearby Rome, Mississippi. Two suspects were captured without resistance. A third fled on foot and, when cornered, took his own life with a gunshot wound. He was airlifted to the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson but died at approximately 3 p.m. that afternoon.
Authorities have yet to publicly name the suspects or confirm their relationship to the victims. A motive has not been disclosed.
A Town in Mourning
As news spread, heartbreak rippled through the streets of Drew. A candlelight vigil was held outside Drew High School, where both Kamaya and Bromeshia had been students. Teachers shared memories of the sisters—how Kamaya’s quiet strength inspired those around her, and how Bromeshia’s vibrant personality lit up every classroom she entered.
“Kamaya was always the first to ask if you needed help,” said her former teacher, Mrs. Linda Hughes. “She wanted to care for people. That’s what she was meant to do.”
“Bromeshia had this joy about her,” added Mr. Franklin, her English teacher. “She had dreams bigger than the Delta sky.”
The family’s home has since become a memorial site, with flowers, stuffed animals, and hand-written notes lining the walkway. “We love you,” one card read. “Your light will never fade.”
Support for the Family and Justice for the Victims
A family devastated by this tragedy is now faced with unimaginable pain and loss. To assist with funeral costs and offer continued support, friends of the family have set up a GoFundMe page. Donations are pouring in from across the state and beyond, a testament to how deeply this tragedy has touched people.
