Holley Cochran / The Prentiss Headlight—A suspect has been identified in the May robbery of Hudson Drugs in Prentiss. He has not been apprehended and is encouraged to turn himself in to authorities.

A major breakthrough has been made in the investigation of the May 17 burglary at Hudson Drug Store on Columbia Avenue in Prentiss.

Prentiss Police Chief and investigator Richard Browning has confirmed that DNA evidence has led to the positive identification of one of the suspects involved.

The early morning burglary involved two masked males who threw a brick through the store’s front glass door. Once inside, they used another brick to smash the pharmacy enclosure and stole thousands of dollars worth of prescription medications.

During his investigation, Chief Browning discovered a bloody fingerprint on the pharmacy counter. The blood sample was sent to the Mississippi Crime Lab, and DNA analysis confirmed a match to a known individual.

“This identification is 100% accurate,” said Chief Browning. “The DNA left at the scene belongs to one individual, and there is no doubt who that person is. If you think we don’t know who you are, you are wrong, he said.”

The identified suspect, who has known ties to both Jefferson Davis County and Marion County, has been entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) as a wanted fugitive. Due to the ongoing search, his name is being withheld until he is taken into custody.

Chief Browning is publicly encouraging the suspect to turn himself in.

“We urge this individual to come forward voluntarily,” said Browning. “Turning yourself in is the right step and can have a positive impact on how your case proceeds,” he said.

Chief Browning also noted there is a second suspect. “We have developed a person of interest and I am actively connecting the dots and working to bring everyone involved to justice,” he said.

The Prentiss Police Department remains steadfast in its commitment to solving this case. “We never give up on cases and no matter how long it takes, we are determined to solve every investigation,” said Browning. “Our community can trust that we work tirelessly to bring justice,” he said.

Hudson Drug Store has since resumed normal operations and continues to cooperate fully with law enforcement.

Chief Browning encourages anyone with information about the burglary, the wanted fugitive, or the second suspect to contact the Prentiss Police Department.

“If you know something, say something,”said Browning. “With the community’s help, we will bring these offenders to justice,” he said.