In a tragic turn of events, a sheriff’s deputy from Weakley County, Tennessee, was shot and killed early Friday morning while responding to reports of potential gunfire. Deputy Derrick Bonham was the officer fatally wounded in the incident.

The Martin Police Department reported that officers were dispatched to the scene at 2:51 a.m., with Deputy Bonham and fellow deputies arriving soon after to assist.

Upon arriving, the deputies observed a vehicle departing from the location at 821 University St. It was then that the driver of the vehicle allegedly opened fire, hitting one of the deputies. Deputy Bonham sustained critical injuries and was rushed to Volunteer Community Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

The suspect in the shooting, identified as a female, reportedly fired a shot from inside the vehicle that struck Deputy Bonham. According to WPSD, she then exited the vehicle and allegedly fired another shot at him.

Deputy Bonham leaves behind a grieving family, including his wife and three children. Weakley County Sheriff Terry McDade spoke highly of Bonham, expressing profound sorrow: “He was the kind of person you want to hire. He never caused any issues and was always calm. We are heartbroken, but our hearts especially go out to his young family.”

The suspect in the shooting is currently in custody, as confirmed by authorities.