Son Faces Father’s Guilt in Mother’s 1987 Homicide Case

HAMMOND, La. — Reginald Reed Jr. has spent more than two decades grappling with the brutal murder of his mother, Selonia Reed, who was killed when he was just 6 years old. Selonia, a 26-year-old bank teller, was found in her vehicle on a hot August day in 1987, and the case remains a haunting memory for Reggie, who recalls her last moments with him vividly.

On Saturday, April 12, at 10 p.m. EST, CBS‘s “48 Hours” will explore the chilling details of Selonia’s murder, including her husband’s initial role as a prime suspect. Reggie, now 31 and a successful pharmaceutical employee in San Antonio, reflects on the events that have shattered his family.

Selonia’s body was discovered in her blue Chevy Sprint parked about one-and-a-half miles from their home. Police reported that she had been bludgeoned multiple times, stabbed, and sexually assaulted. Her husband, Reginald Reed Sr., had reported her missing just before the discovery was made. He claimed that Selonia had gone out with a girlfriend the night before, a statement that was contradicted by the alleged friend.

As the investigation progressed, law enforcement learned that Selonia confided in family members about her husband’s abusive behavior and her desire for a divorce. However, Reggie, who was too young at the time, was unaware of his father’s potential involvement. Police interviewed him, filming a poignant moment where he cried for his parents.

“I just can’t imagine what it’s like as a 6-year-old to have to sit there,” said Vladimir Duthiers, contributor to “48 Hours.” Reggie later viewed that interview, recalling the heart-wrenching moment of longing and confusion. “I see me crying,” he shared, reflecting on personal trauma.

Reggie authored a memoir titled “The Day My Mother Never Came Home,” detailing his struggle to uncover the truth about Selonia’s death. In 2012, the startling revelation that his father was the prime suspect rocked his world. “I remember asking, is there any new evidence that was surfaced?” he told Duthiers, expressing disbelief about the shocking developments.

Investigations resumed, and Lt. Barry Ward of the Louisiana State Police gathered new evidence that led to indictments against Reginald Reed Sr. and alleged accomplice Jimmy Ray Barnes. Barnes testified against Reginald in exchange for a reduced sentence. In November 2022, Reginald was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to life imprisonment.

Ward indicated that police believe Reginald murdered Selonia while Reggie slept and then transported her body to the scene. The testimony from Barnes included details of seeing Reginald at the crime scene, heightening the already chilling circumstances of the case.

Despite the conviction, Reggie grapples with his father’s guilt. “I want justice, but I didn’t think justice was gonna come at the price of my dad going to prison for life,” he shared. Duthiers pressed him on his beliefs regarding his father’s involvement. “I don’t know,” Reggie replied. “Do I think my dad had some involvement? Maybe. I don’t know.”

Reggie reflects on the dichotomy between his father’s image as a provider who gave him a private school education and the actions that led to his mother’s death. “Just knowing the type of father he is,” he lamented, “I can’t just turn a page and just look at my father as a complete monster.”

Now, as a father himself raising two children, including a daughter named Selonia in honor of his mother, Reggie channels his experiences into a mission of healing and helping others. He emphasizes that vulnerability can lead to strength in the face of adversity, offering hope for those dealing with trauma.

“It shows the way trauma can double back like a boomerang,” he explained. “My dad raised me. He wasn’t this weird guy. He was a very loved and respected people-person, big into politics. People adored him.” Reggie’s compelling story will be spotlighted in the upcoming episode of “48 Hours,” highlighting the emotional complexities of a son and the legacy of a mother he lost too soon.