Burlington Woman Accused of Cousin's Murder Faces Trial

Tisha Renee Bounds charged with first-degree murder in 2025 stabbing death of Derius Lashaun Moore

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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The trial begins today for 50-year-old Tisha Renee Bounds, who is accused of stabbing her 33-year-old cousin Derius Lashaun Moore to death in March 2025 at an apartment in Burlington, Iowa. Bounds was arrested and charged with first-degree murder following the incident.

Why it matters

Violent crimes within families are tragically common, raising complex issues around mental health, domestic disputes, and the justice system's ability to prevent such tragedies. This case will be closely watched as it unfolds in the Burlington community.

The details

According to court documents, police were called to an apartment on Angular Street on March 1, 2025 after receiving a report of an unresponsive man who had been stabbed. They found Moore with a single stab wound and he was later pronounced dead at a local hospital. Bounds was present at the apartment, and witnesses said an argument occurred before Bounds went to the kitchen, got a knife, and stabbed Moore in the upper left back.

  • The incident occurred on March 1, 2025.
  • Bounds was arrested and charged with first-degree murder in April 2025.
  • The trial is set to begin today, February 4, 2026.

The players

Tisha Renee Bounds

A 50-year-old Burlington resident accused of stabbing her cousin to death.

Derius Lashaun Moore

A 33-year-old Chicago resident who was the victim of the fatal stabbing.

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What they’re saying

“We must get to the bottom of what happened and ensure justice is served for the victim's family.”

— Jill Watkins, Burlington City Council Member (KBUR)

What’s next

The trial is expected to last several weeks, and the judge will decide whether to grant Bounds bail during the proceedings.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the need for greater resources and support to address domestic violence and mental health issues within families before they escalate to deadly violence.