The Tragic Loss of 6-Year-Old Gracelyn Vick: What We Know So Far
On Sunday afternoon, the small town of Saucier was rocked by the disappearance of 6-year-old Gracelyn Vick.
Around noon, Gracelyn went outside to play in the yard, but she never returned. Hours passed, and with no sign of her, her family grew increasingly worried. They immediately reached out to authorities, prompting a swift and extensive search effort.
An All-Out Search Effort
The Harrison County Sheriff’s Office in Mississippi quickly mobilized a team to search for the young girl. With the help of local law enforcement, Gulf Coast Search and Rescue, helicopters, drones, and over 40 volunteers, the search continued for nearly six hours.
Despite the massive effort, Gracelyn’s whereabouts remained a mystery, fueling widespread concern and many rumors online.
A Crime Scene and an Ongoing Investigation
As the evening approached, deputies cordoned off a section of the Vick family’s land, which included a swing set and areas where livestock were kept. Crime scene technicians meticulously documented the scene, collecting evidence late into the night.
Around 8 p.m., Gracelyn’s body was discovered on the property.
In the face of rising online speculation, Harrison County Sheriff Matt Haley addressed the rumors on Monday, confirming that while Gracelyn’s body was found near her home, it was still too early to say if foul play was involved. “This is an ongoing investigation,” he stated. An autopsy, scheduled for Monday at the state crime lab in Biloxi, will help determine the exact cause of death.
A Heartbreaking Family Tragedy
Since the news broke, the Vick family has been overwhelmed by an outpouring of support from the community and social media. However, for Gracelyn’s mother, Vicky Lynn (Wedgeworth) Hutcherson, the grief is particularly devastating. Gracelyn’s death marks her third child lost in recent years.
In March 2024, Vicky’s 13-year-old stepdaughter, Victoria Hutcherson, tragically died in a car crash on U.S. 49. The minivan Victoria was traveling in collided with a dump truck as it tried to cross four lanes of traffic. Victoria, an eighth grader at West Wortham Elementary, was described by her family as a protective older sister who loved her siblings dearly.
In July 2021, the Hutcherson family faced another unbearable loss when 18-year-old Larry Hart, Gracelyn’s older brother, passed away from a medical condition.
Community Support and Ongoing Search for Answers
The grief-stricken family now faces yet another devastating loss, and the community has rallied around them. Grief counselors have been brought into Saucier Elementary School to help students cope with the heartbreaking loss of their young classmate.
As the investigation into Gracelyn’s death continues, we hope the authorities are given the space to work carefully and thoroughly, ensuring that the truth behind her untimely passing is uncovered.
Please keep the Vick family and their loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.
