HANCOCK COUNTY, Miss — A Hancock County deputy was shot and killed while responding to a disturbance call Monday afternoon.
Lieutenant Michael Boutte was shot by someone inside of the home and a fellow deputy returned fire, striking the suspect.
Boutte and the suspect were taken to the hospital and the lieutenant later died from his injuries.
Boutte was an eight-year law enforcement veteran and a veteran of the United States Air Force. People who knew him said he loved his job and always showed up to work with a smile.
Boutte was awarded a medal for saving a child's life and was credited with spearheading efforts for the local National Night Out Against Crime.
Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves posted a tweet about Boutte, saying "his fearless service demonstrates his courage and the outpouring of love demonstrates just how great a loss this is."