Harry Gipson, the 70-year-old father of Mississippi Agriculture Commissioner Andy Gipson, was reportedly shot and killed by a Simpson County Deputy earlier today.
Gipson confirmed that his father, who had been a battling brain injury, passed away, but he did not confirm any specifics surrounding his death.
The MBI is investigating the incident, and they have released the following statement, which does not reference Gipson by name or identify the officer.
“At the request of the Simpson County Sheriff’s Department, the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation is currently investigating the circumstances that led to an officer involved shooting that occurred Thursday morning in Simpson County. All investigative findings will be shared with the District Attorney’s office throughout the process for consideration and review. The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation will refrain from further comment regarding this ongoing case in order to protect the integrity of the investigation.
As is our policy, MBI does not identify officers involved in these types of incidents, and instead refers questions of that nature to the respective agency.”
After the story broke, Governor Phil Bryant tweeted the following message to Gipson and his family.
“Deborah and I offer our deepest sympathy to Andy and his family. I am certain his faith and our prayers will bring him through this tragedy,” the Governor said.
The MBI is investigating, and this story will be updated as we receive more information.
