In a devastating incident that has left the community of Terry, Mississippi, reeling, Hinds County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) Deputy Martin Shields Jr., aged 37, was fatally shot by 42-year-old Eric Brown while responding to a domestic disturbance call on Midway Road. This tragic event unfolded on the evening of Sunday, February 23, 2025, marking a somber day for law enforcement and residents alike.

The Fateful Evening

At approximately 7:40 PM CST, Deputy Martin Shields Jr. was dispatched to a residence located on Midway Road in Terry, Mississippi, following reports of a domestic disturbance. The call, which came through the Hinds County emergency dispatch, indicated a volatile situation that required immediate law enforcement intervention. Deputy Shields, known for his dedication and swift response, arrived at the scene promptly, unaware of the peril that awaited him.

Encounter with Eric Brown

Upon arrival, Deputy Shields encountered Eric Brown, a 42-year-old male resident of the home in question. Details surrounding the initial interaction between Deputy Shields and Brown remain under investigation; however, it has been confirmed that during this encounter, Brown produced a firearm and discharged it, striking Deputy Shields. The suddenness of the attack left little opportunity for Shields to defend himself or call for immediate backup.

Immediate Aftermath

Following the shooting, emergency services were notified, and additional law enforcement units, including the Hinds County SWAT team, were dispatched to the scene. Upon their arrival, they found Deputy Shields unresponsive. Despite the rapid response and immediate medical attention, Deputy Shields succumbed to his injuries at the scene, marking a heartbreaking loss for the HCSO and the community he served.

Discovery Inside the Residence

As officers secured the perimeter and prepared to enter the residence, they were met with a grim discovery. Inside the home, an unidentified Black male was found deceased. Authorities believe this individual was connected to the initial domestic disturbance call that brought Deputy Shields to the location. The exact circumstances of his death are currently under investigation, with officials working diligently to piece together the events that led to this dual tragedy.

The Search for Eric Brown

In the immediate chaos following the shooting, Eric Brown fled the scene, prompting a county-wide manhunt. The Hinds County Sheriff’s Office issued a Be On the Lookout (BOLO) alert for Brown, describing him as armed and dangerous. Residents were advised to remain indoors and report any suspicious activity. The search involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including neighboring county sheriffs’ departments and the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI).

Resolution and Current Status

Hours after the incident, Sheriff Tyree Jones announced that the BOLO for Eric Brown had been canceled. While specific details regarding Brown’s apprehension or current status were not immediately disclosed, Sheriff Jones assured the public that there was no ongoing threat involving Brown at that time. The community, while relieved, remains on edge as they await further information.

Remembering Deputy Martin Shields Jr.

Deputy Martin Shields Jr. had been with the Hinds County Sheriff’s Office for approximately nine months. Despite his relatively short tenure with the department, he brought with him a wealth of experience from previous law enforcement roles. Colleagues describe him as a dedicated officer with an unwavering commitment to public service. His loss is profoundly felt within the department and the broader community.

Sheriff Tyree Jones’ Statement

In the wake of the tragedy, Sheriff Tyree Jones addressed the media and the public, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of Deputy Shields. He extended heartfelt condolences to Shields’ family, friends, and fellow officers, emphasizing the collective grief shared by the law enforcement community. Sheriff Jones also highlighted the inherent dangers faced by officers daily and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to serving and protecting the community, even in the face of such adversity.

Community Response

The town of Terry, a close-knit community in Hinds County, has been profoundly impacted by the events of February 23rd. Vigils and memorials have been organized in honor of Deputy Shields, with residents coming together to support his family and express their gratitude for his service. Local businesses have displayed blue ribbons and flags at half-mast as a tribute to the fallen deputy. The outpouring of support underscores the deep bond between the community and its law enforcement officers.

Ongoing Investigation

The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation has taken the lead in the ongoing inquiry into the incident. Their investigation aims to uncover the precise sequence of events, the motive behind Eric Brown’s actions, and the circumstances leading to the death of the unidentified male inside the residence. Authorities have urged anyone with information related to the case to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in achieving justice.

A Pattern of Domestic Disturbance-Related Incidents

This tragic event is not isolated within the region. In December 2024, a similar incident occurred in Terry, Mississippi, where a domestic disturbance escalated to fatal violence. On Christmas Eve, 65-year-old Dawn Marie Tillman was fatally shot in the head at her home on Doc Henry Cove. Her husband, 53-year-old Timothy Wayne Tillman, was subsequently charged with her murder. These incidents highlight the escalating nature of domestic disturbances and the potential dangers they pose to both residents and responding officers.

The Dangers Faced by Law Enforcement

Domestic disturbance calls are among the most perilous situations law enforcement officers encounter. The volatile and unpredictable nature of these incidents can escalate rapidly, placing officers and civilians at significant risk. The loss of Deputy Shields serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by those in uniform and the inherent dangers they face in the line of duty.

Support for the Fallen Deputy’s Family

In the aftermath of Deputy Shields’ tragic death, various initiatives have been established to support his surviving family members. The Hinds County Sheriff’s Office has set up a memorial fund to assist with funeral expenses and provide financial support to his loved