A Mississippi family is dealing with the tragic loss of their 6-year-old daughter, who went missing while playing in her front yard, according to local law enforcement.
The Harrison County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that deputies discovered Gracelyn Vick’s body on Sunday evening, following a six-hour search. Gracelyn’s disappearance was first reported to authorities earlier in the day by her family.
The young girl’s body was discovered around 6 p.m. on Sunday near her family’s home, according to the sheriff’s office. While the investigation is still ongoing, Harrison County Sheriff Matt Haley addressed speculation about Gracelyn’s death the next day.
Sheriff Haley clarified that no arrests have been made in the case and that it is too early to determine whether foul play was involved, according to the Biloxi Sun Herald. The same source stated that an autopsy was scheduled for Monday.
This heartbreaking incident occurred just over a year after another devastating blow to the family.
The Mississippi Highway Patrol reported in March 2024 that Gracelyn’s older sister Victoria, 13, died in a crash on U.S. 49 in Harrison County.
Jackie Polk, Gracelyn’s aunt, spoke to the Biloxi Sun Herald about Victoria’s death and its impact on the young girl. She described Gracelyn as “broken” over her sister’s death.
Polk remembered Gracelyn fondly, describing her as a “beautiful girl” who was intelligent and enjoyed spending time outside caring for animals.
The mystery surrounding Gracelyn’s death remains unsolved, as officials have yet to confirm her cause of death. The Harrison County Coroner’s Office is working closely with the sheriff’s department to investigate the upcoming autopsy, which is scheduled for Tuesday.
Her brother, Robert Pittman, told the Biloxi Sun Herald, “I haven’t slept,” and admitted on Monday, “It doesn’t feel real.” I am just trying to make the timeline make sense.”