Greenville police officer killed in ‘shootout,’ suspect in custody

GREENVILLE, Miss. (WLBT) - A police officer in Greenville, Mississippi was killed in what’s being described as a “big shootout” around 8:30 p.m. Tuesday.

What Happened

The “big shootout” happened between Reed and Rebecca Streets in Greenville.

Law enforcement sources told WLBT that a male victim was shot in the head by the suspect and a female was allegedly shot in the foot by the suspect. In all, four people were shot, the mayor of Greenville said.

It was in the shooting that Detective Myiesha Stewart was killed. The suspect and a man he allegedly shot were airlifted to a Jackson hospital.

There is no additional information on the condition of anyone else involved.

In a statement to the media on Tuesday, the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation said, “MBI is currently assessing this critical incident and gathering evidence. Upon completing their investigation, agents will share their findings with the local Attorney General’s Office.”

The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation said the suspect is being treated and is in the custody of law enforcement.

“It is difficult to find words at a time like this,” said Mayor Errick D. Simmons at a press conference on Tuesday. “It’s definitely a sad day here in Greenville. It’s a sad day for the Mississippi Delta. It’s a sad day for the state of Mississippi when an officer pays the ultimate sacrifice in losing her life in the line of duty.”

The upcoming Hot Tamale Festival and the homecoming parade will not be canceled in the town, because, as the mayor said, “we [will] not hide from terrorism.” No active threats have been verified, he said, and the threat that existed Tuesday evening is “under control... Our community is safe.”

Who Was Myiesha Stewart?

Myiesha Stewart was the mother of a 3-year-old son, Chase, who attended the mayor’s press conference on Wednesday. “Our community is hurting,” Mayor Simmons said before breaking down in tears.

Simmons described Stewart as a woman who ran into danger when others ran away from it, a person who exhibited “heart and courage.” “In her final act,” he said, “she leaves a legacy of duty, honor, strength, courage and service.”

The mayor also said that she was promoted to detective after only several years on the force due to her hard work ethic.

Commissioner Sean Tindell added in a statement, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Detective Myiesha Stewart. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends as well as the members of the Greenville Police Department.”

Governor Tate Reeves described Stewart’s service to the community as “selfless” and asked the state to pray for her family and friends. “Her bravery and selfless service to her community will be remembered.” The Mississippi Association of Chiefs of Police also offered its condolences to the family of Detective Myiesha Stewart.

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