Quantico Man Sentenced to 50 Years for Attempted Murder of Step-Daughter

QUANTICO, Md. – A man from Quantico was sentenced to 50 years on Thursday for the attempted murder of his 19-year-old step-daughter.

On Jun. 24, 2024, 71-year-old McKinley Cornish attacked his step-daughter in a fit of rage over his marriage ending. Despite the step-daughter’s desperate pleas for her life, Cornish shot her approximately eight times, hitting her in the arm, shoulder, stomach, back, and legs. Thankfully, she was able to survive the attack.

He was convicted by a jury on Sept. 17 following a three-day trial.

Jamie Dykes, Wicomico County State’s Attorney, said “The victim will forever be scarred by Cornish’s
actions but should never have to fear for her safety again. A firm sentence like the one imposed in this case shows the community that gun violence, particularly by those who are prohibited from possession of firearms, will not be tolerated in Wicomico County.”