Batesville Woman Accused of Bomb Plot Now Facing Jail Escape Charges

LAFAYETTE COUNTY, Miss. – A Batesville woman already facing attempted murder and bomb-making charges is now accused of plotting a jail escape with the help of an accomplice, according to the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office.

New Charges Filed
Christina Laureen Willis, 27, was charged with conspiracy to commit escape after authorities say she tried to plan a breakout from the Lafayette County Detention Center. Deputies allege she worked with Mark Montgomery, 48, who was arrested and charged with the same offense for helping organize the plan. Montgomery appeared before a judge on August 16 and was given a $50,000 bond. He is also awaiting additional federal charges.

Bomb Case Background
Willis was first arrested on August 4 following a federal search warrant at her Panola County home, where investigators discovered bomb-making materials, homemade explosives, firearms, narcotics, and a live explosive device. Authorities said she had earlier planted another homemade bomb on a vehicle in Lafayette County, which was safely removed before detonation.

The multi-agency investigation began in June after deputies responded to a suspicious package on a car in the county’s southwest area. The Tupelo Bomb Squad and federal agents later confirmed it was a live explosive. That discovery led to weeks of forensic and digital evidence collection, ultimately identifying Willis as a suspect.

Custody and Pending Charges
Willis was initially held in Panola County before being transferred to Lafayette County. She faces charges of attempted murder, planting a bomb or weapon of mass destruction, and now conspiracy to escape. She remains in custody awaiting a bond hearing, while federal prosecutors are expected to pursue additional charges.