The quiet town of Saucier, Mississippi, is reeling after the devastating discovery of 6-year-old Gracelyn Vick, who was found dead Sunday evening not far from her home.
Gracelyn had last been seen around noon that day, when she went outside to play in her yard. When she didn’t return, her family’s worry grew into alarm. After several hours with no sign of her, they called for help. The Harrison County Sheriff’s Office quickly launched a large-scale search, supported by local police, rescue teams, drones, helicopters, and dozens of community volunteers.
As daylight faded, search teams made a heartbreaking discovery near the family’s property. Authorities secured the area, including parts of the yard where children’s play equipment and livestock pens stood, working late into the night to collect evidence. According to WLOX, Gracelyn’s body was removed from the scene around 8 p.m.
In a statement Monday, Sheriff Matt Haley addressed growing speculation online. He confirmed that no one had been arrested and that it was too soon to say whether foul play was involved. An autopsy is being conducted at the state crime lab in Biloxi to determine the cause of death.
The news of Gracelyn’s passing has shaken the community, both online and locally. At Saucier Elementary, where she was a student, grief counselors have been made available to help classmates and teachers cope with the sudden loss.
The tragedy is especially painful for Gracelyn’s mother, Vicky Lynn Hutcherson. This marks the third time she has lost a child in recent years. In March 2024, her 13-year-old stepdaughter Victoria was killed in a crash on U.S. 49. And in July 2021, her son Larry Hart passed away at age 18 due to a medical issue.
As investigators work to uncover the truth, the people of Saucier are coming together to support the grieving family. Their thoughts remain with Gracelyn, a little girl remembered for her bright spirit, and with those who loved her most.
