A local sheriff from Arkansas announced Wednesday afternoon that a man suspected of shooting two police officers has been taken into custody.
Police took Billy Jones, the 34 year-old man suspected of shooting two cops, into custody after a hours long standoff in which Jones locked himself in his house, reports the New York Daily News. Police tried to apprehend Jones earlier Wednesday, but could not because Jones began to shoot at them.
He reportedly used a semi-automatic rifle to shoot at the police when they attempted to apprehend him.
Jones is suspected of shooting the police chief and a deputy. Hackett Police Chief Darrell Spells suffered superficial wounds and is expected to recover. A statement from Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson said that the deputy who was shot died Wednesday afternoon.
“I am deeply saddened by the news that Sebastian County Sheriffs Deputy Bill Cooper has passed away after being shot in the line of duty this morning. Today’s shooting incident, which also resulted in injuries to Hackett Chief of Police Darrell Spells, tragically illustrates the dangers our law enforcement officers face each and every day to keep us safe,” the statement read.
According to the police, Spells and Cooper were responding to a call about a domestic disturbance; when they showed up, they were shot. A hospital offical told 40/29 News that the two officers were taken to Sparks Medical Center.
“We ask that you please pray for the officers and their families that were involved in this morning’s shooting,” The Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office wrote.
Jones has a previous criminal record. In 2007, police arrested Jones during a raid they conducted on a marijuana grow operation. Earlier this year he was also arrested for gun charges.
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