Local
Sheriff says gunman fired more than 800 rounds in Van Zandt County attack that killed deputy
A 42-year-old man opened fire as officers arrived south of Canton to serve arrest warrants, killing Deputy Adam Sherifi and wounding Canton Officer Chris Watson. Texas Rangers are investigating the suspect’s death inside the home.
VAN ZANDT COUNTY, Texas — A gunman fired more than 800 rounds at officers who came to serve arrest warrants south of Canton on Tuesday night, killing Van Zandt County Deputy Adam Sherifi and wounding Canton police Officer Chris Watson, Sheriff Kevin Bridger said Friday.
The suspect, identified by authorities as 42-year-old Mi Van Nguyen, was wanted on warrants for aggravated assault and aggravated assault on a peace officer. Nguyen died inside the residence during the exchange of gunfire, according to the sheriff’s office.
Bridger described the shooting as an “act of pure evil” at a Friday morning news conference, saying officers had arrived to carry out their duties and protect the community. The Texas Rangers will investigate Nguyen’s death, and the sheriff’s office said it would cooperate.
Sherifi leaves behind a wife and three young children, including a baby born last month. Family member Nancy White remembered him as a devoted husband and father who was “a provider and a protector.”
Watson was taken to a hospital in Plano and is recovering from surgery to remove a bullet from his arm, Canton police said. He has served in law enforcement for 12 years, including with the Canton Police Department and Van Zandt County Sheriff’s Office, and served in the Army.