Suspicious packages lead to the arrest of a Batesville woman

Published 3:55 pm Tuesday, August 5, 2025

The Panola County Sheriff’s Office announced Monday that a homemade bomb was safely detonated that was discovered in the area of Highway 35 South and Morrow Road, which ultimately led to the arrest of a Batesville woman.

The Panola County Sheriff’s Office reported on Facebook Monday that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tupelo Bomb Squad “rendered safe” a homemade explosive that was discovered as the result of a search warrant.

“This was done by detonating the device. If you just heard a loud boom, that was it,” the post read.

On Tuesday, the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office sent out a press release with more details.

According to the report, a suspicious package was discovered in Lafayette County on June 20 after deputies responded to a report of a suspicious package found in a vehicle. The package was secured by deputies for further examination.

Three days later, on June 23, the Sheriff’s Office enlisted help from the Tupelo Bomb Squad and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Bomb technicians confirmed the package contained a homemade explosive device, which was safely carried to a secure location.

After an investigation, the suspect was identified as Christina Laureen Willis, 27, of Batesville.

On Monday, federal and local authorities executed a search warrant at Willis’ home on Highway 35.

Investigators found materials for making bombs, illegal substances, firearms and another explosive device, which was the one detonated on site.

Willis was subsequently charged by the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office with attempted murder and bomb or explosive or weapon of mass destruction, planting or placement.

The ATF is also presenting the case to a federal grand jury, and Willis is expected to face additional federal charges.

She is currently being held at the Panola County Jail, with a hold placed by Lafayette County authorities. She will be transported to the Lafayette County Detention Center at a later date.

Due to the sensitive and ongoing nature of the investigation, the sheriff’s office reported that no further information is being released at this time.