Police probe apparent homicide
By By Marianne Todd/The Meridian Star
March 14, 2001
Meridian police say they are developing leads this morning in the death of 31-year-old Tommy Robinson of DeVille Manor Apartments.
Robinson's body was found in his fifth floor apartment, at 1914 11th St., around 5 p.m. Tuesday. A family member made the discovery.
Police Chief Gregg Lewis said investigators suspect Robinson died of a gunshot wound and are treating the case as a homicide. No weapon was found at the scene, he said.
The official time of death was listed as 7 a.m., said Lauderdale County Medical Examiner Investigator Clayton Cobler. Robinson apparently died from severe trauma to the head, he said. An autopsy scheduled today in Jackson should pinpoint the exact cause and approximate time of death.
Lewis, being briefed by investigators at press time, said detectives plan to interview several people today.
Lewis said the department's Violent Crimes Unit has been assigned to the case.
Many DeVille Manor residents watched from their balconies Tuesday afternoon as investigators and police officers entered and left the apartment.
Lewis said investigators were taking their time, carefully collecting evidence from the front door to the back of the apartment.
Robinson's preliminary autopsy report should be available within the next few days.
Marianne Todd is a staff writer for The Meridian Star. E-mail her at mtodd@themeridianstar.com.