A Clay County Judge has found James Diawo Kollie Jr., 29, guilty of first-degree murder for killing his mother, Receia Kollie, 59.
Judge Tammy Merkins announced the verdict on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, in Clay County District Court, United States of America.
“Today’s verdict holds James Kollie Jr. accountable for the brutal killing of his mother, Receia Kollie. This was a terrible and heartbreaking crime, and no verdict can undo the loss suffered by Receia’s family or bring her back,” Clay County Attorney Brian Melton said.
“Our responsibility was to present the evidence and seek justice for Receia. I am grateful that the court has reached a verdict finding him guilty of First-Degree Murder. My thoughts remain with Receia’s loved ones as they continue to live with this devastating loss,” Melton averred.
“Justice in a case like this means holding the defendant accountable while never losing sight of the life that was taken and the people left behind. Receia Kollie deserves to be remembered as a person and a mother, not simply as the victim of a terrible crime,” Melton concluded.
