Off-duty Mississippi state trooper working part-time for USPS shot dead in delivery truck, 3 suspects arrested
JEFFERSON COUNTY, MISSISSIPPI: An off-duty state trooper working part-time for the US Postal Service was found shot to death inside his USPS truck in Jefferson Sounty, on Friday around 4:30 a.m.
Mississippi Highway Patrolman Lt. Troy 'Rudy' Morris, of Natchez, worked for USPS part-time for 16 years. According to a Saturday release from Mississippi Highway Patrol, 24-year-old Treyon Washinton, 17-year-old Cdarrius Norman, and 25-year-old Damion Whittley have all been charged with murder in connection with the shooting death of Morris. Washington was arrested in Jefferson County and is currrently being held without bond. Norman and Whitley were both arrested in New Orleans, Los Angeles and are awaiting extradition to Mississippi.
The 27-year veteran of the Mississippi Highway Patrol was working an early shift with USPS when the incident took place. Morris called MHP and the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office after his mail truck got a flat tire on US Route 61. But while waiting for backup to arrive, he was gunned down. His body was later discovered by authorities who were dispatched to meet him. Investigators added that nothing apeared to be stolen from the truck.
“While we are pleased with the progress of this investigation, we realize there is much work left to be done,” said MHP Col. Randy Ginn. “The tireless efforts of law enforcement has been inspiring and the public outpouring of support and concern has touched us all and has shown Lieutentant Morris’ family that Mississippians truly care about the officers who protect them.”
He added: ''He was a good man, a friend and a valuable member of this agency. He will be truly missed by the Mississippi Highway Patrol. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family."
Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell said that a team of law enforcement agencies received tips and leads from witnesses and latest technology was used to track the suspects down. Also a reward of $108,000 had been offered through the U.S. Postal Service and Mississippi Crime Stoppers. “Again, I would like to start by saying that our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Lt. Morris. I met with his family yesterday and assured them that we are working with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners as we investigate his murder. The progress that has been made is a direct result of their hard work and dedication,” he said.
Adams County Coroner James Lee told The Natchez Democrat the news of Morris' death has shocked his colleagues. "Troopers from around this state were vehemently searching for clues and leads to direct them to a possible suspect. The State Crime Lab sent a team of forensic experts to work the crime scene," said Lee. "This is a sad day, not only for law enforcement but family and friends of Lt. Morris. My deepest sympathy and prayers."
He added that Morris' body was transferred to the Mississippi Crime Lab and report of an autopsy was pending. "I can’t believe someone would gun down a police officer like that," he said.