A Claiborne County sheriff’s deputy was shot and killed while attempting to control a crowd following a festival Sunday night, officials confirmed.
Gov. Tate Reeves offered his condolences Monday morning to the family of Deputy Terrian Bailey, saying Bailey was “working to disperse a crowd at a convenience store” when gunfire erupted.
“[Bailey] leaves behind a wife and four children. This senseless act of violence took the life of a husband, father, and hero,” Reeves said. “Those responsible will be brought to justice. Please pray for Deputy Bailey’s family and fellow law enforcement officers during this incredibly difficult time. Mississippi will never forget his service and sacrifice.”
The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation said the shooting happened shortly after midnight in the parking lot of Michael Dean’s Convenience Store on Highway 18 near Hermanville.
According to MBI, gunfire was directed toward a crowd gathered in the parking lot, striking Bailey and a female bystander.
Bailey was transported to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries. The bystander was also taken to a hospital with injuries believed to be non-life-threatening. Her identity has not been released.
MBI has taken over the investigation, as is standard protocol for officer-involved shootings. Once the investigation is complete, agents will provide their findings to the local district attorney’s office and the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office.
No arrests had been announced as of Monday morning. Authorities have not said what led to the gunfire or whether Bailey was the intended target.
