A county sheriff in Alabama who served in the U.S. Marine Corps was fatally shot Saturday night after responding to a call at a local convenience store, according to police.
The death of Sheriff John Williams of Lowndes County occurred around 8:15 p.m. in Hayneville, Alabama. A heavy police presence was seen at the store following the shooting, WSFA-TV reported.
There was no immediate word about suspects, arrests or the circumstances of the shooting. Williams was first elected sheriff in 2010.
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey posted a Twitter message in reaction to the sheriff’s death.
I’m saddened to hear about Sheriff Big John Williams, who was tragically killed this evening in the line of duty. Through his service to our country in the @USMC and his many years working in law enforcement, he dedicated his life to keeping other people safe. (1/2) #alpolitics
— Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) November 24, 2019
He will be remembered as a consummate professional and pillar of his community. I offer my prayers and deepest sympathies to his family and to the men and women of the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Department. (2/2) #alpolitics
— Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) November 24, 2019
Source: Lowndes County Sheriff John ‘Big John’ Williams killed in shooting
