Gulfport, MS (BuzzReport) — A Gulfport woman has died after being shot by a deputy during an incident that authorities say began as a domestic disturbance and escalated into a confrontation involving a vehicle.
According to the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office, the shooting occurred around 2 p.m. in the area of Robinson Road and 5 Oaks Drive. Deputies were initially dispatched to the location in response to reports of a domestic dispute.
Investigators with the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI) said that during the response, a deputy approached a vehicle driven by 42-year-old Fallas Williams of Gulfport. Authorities allege that as the deputy walked toward the vehicle, Williams attempted to strike the deputy with the car.
In response, the deputy discharged their firearm, striking Williams.
Williams was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of a gunshot wound but later succumbed to her injuries, officials confirmed. Harrison County Coroner Brian Switzer stated that an autopsy is scheduled to be conducted on Monday to determine the exact cause of death.
No deputies or other individuals were reported injured during the incident.
The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation has taken over the case, which is standard procedure in officer-involved shootings. The investigation remains ongoing, and no further details have been released at this time.