Former elementary school teacher charged with attempted murder

COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) – A former elementary school teacher is charged with attempted murder after allegedly driving her vehicle and her child into a Columbus Lake.

Cari Cullum, 34, was arrested over the weekend and made her initial court appearance Monday evening.

A judge set her bond at $400,000.

In court, Cullum’s attorney also said she has resigned from her teaching job in Hamilton.

According to the Columbus Police Department, the alleged incident happened on September 21st at the East Bank landing boat ramp on Wilkins-Wise Road.

Investigators believe Cullum drove her vehicle into the water with her toddler in backseat of the car.

Sources tell WCBI Cullum was attempting to commit suicide.

By the time officers arrived, a friend had pulled Cullum and her daughter out of the vehicle.

Police believe the car had been backed into the water.

Chief Fred Shelton said this is a serious offense and they’re thankful no one was harmed.

“This was a life of a minor that was threatened and we were able to get that child to safety,” said Chief Shelton. “Not that we joy in any arrest, but this was a serious crime and anytime we can make an arrest in a serious crime within a short period of time, we’re always grateful.”

Police also confirmed the 34-year-old was charged with misdemeanor DUI back in August.

Cullum’s three children are now in the care of another person.

During her initial appearance, a judge ordered her not to have any contact with them during this process.

A preliminary hearing has been set for October 10th.