Mississippi coast deputy shot with his own weapon resigns

Published 10:23 pm Wednesday, September 20, 2017

GULFPORT (AP) — A Mississippi Gulf Coast sheriff’s deputy who was shot with his own weapon in July has resigned.

Harrison County Sheriff Troy Peterson told local news media Wednesday that the deputy resigned Sept. 1, after a period on paid leave.

The deputy, whose name is being withheld, claimed that a man exited a pickup truck and shot him on July 28. The deputy told officials that he and the assailant struggled over the deputy’s gun.

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The bullet did not pierce his protective vest.

An investigation showed the deputy was shot with his own handgun and there was no evidence anyone was present. Officials have never said whether they believe the deputy shot himself. The shooting promoted a widespread manhunt.

Peterson says an inquiry by the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation continues.