Mississippi Bureau of Investigation is investigating a fatal shooting that took place Wednesday involving the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Department.
According to the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, DeSoto County deputies were involved in a vehicle chase when deputies initiated a PIT maneuver, stopping the suspect’s vehicle on Highway 61 near the border of Tunica and DeSoto Counties.
Deputies then released a K9 officer, who was shot by the suspect. Deputies then returned fire, killing the suspect.
It’s unclear at this time what initiated the chase.
Family members have identified the deceased as 38-year-old Jamarcus Brown.
Law enforcement officials say the K9 officer named Luca sustained serious injuries and was rushed to a veterinary hospital for treatment, but did not survive.
No deputies were seriously injured.
Mississippi Highway Patrol says the area is blocked off from I-69 to Starlanding Road while police investigate.