Brandon, Miss. — A man suspected in two separate murders in Rankin County and Brandon has been taken into custody following swift cooperation between local law enforcement agencies.
Authorities say Matthew Brian Kidd, 35, of Brandon, was arrested early Friday morning at a hotel in Brandon. Kidd is accused in the shooting deaths of two men over the course of two days.
First Homicide in Rankin County
On Wednesday morning, August 27, deputies with the Rankin County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call in the 3300 block of Highway 80. There they discovered William Earl Morris dead from apparent gunshot wounds. Investigators quickly began developing leads, eventually identifying Kidd as a suspect.
Second Shooting in Brandon
The following evening, Thursday, August 28, Brandon police were called to Gayden Street where another gunshot victim was found. Investigators noted similarities between the two cases, leading them to connect the shootings.
Arrest at Brandon Hotel
After law enforcement agencies shared information, officers received a tip that Kidd had checked into a Brandon hotel. The tipster had recognized him from media coverage and alerted authorities.
The Brandon Police Department and Rankin County Sheriff’s Office SWAT teams executed a search warrant and arrested Kidd without incident. A firearm was recovered from his hotel room.
Charges Filed
Kidd has been charged with both murders. He also faces two counts of home invasion and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
District Attorney Bubba Bramlett announced that Kidd will make his initial court appearances before Rankin County Court Judge David Morrow Jr. and Brandon Municipal Judge Whitney Adams.
Officials Praise Cooperation
Brandon Police Chief Joseph French and Rankin County Sheriff Bryan Bailey commended the joint effort, noting the rapid arrest was possible due to close collaboration and help from the public.
“This dangerous individual is now off the streets thanks to the hard work of our officers and deputies,” officials said in a joint statement. “We are also grateful to the media for broadcasting Kidd’s information quickly, which generated valuable tips.”
