From the Jackson Police Department –

The Jackson Police Department responded to the area of 112 Rhone Street for a welfare check at approximately 7:05 p.m., Tuesday.

The JPD received a report of a suicidal individual, identified as Bruce Durham, who had sent alarming text messages to friends.

Based upon preliminary information from Mr. Durham’s friends – he was in crisis.

Responding officers located the apartment of Mr. Durham and attempted to make contact without success. With the urgency of the circumstances, officers obtained a key from the residential manager in an effort of making entry to provide emergency assistance.

Upon opening the door and making entry, the resident fired a shot. One of the Jackson Police Department Officers returned fire as both officers retreated to a place to a place of cover.

The Jackson Police Incident Command Team, which consist of hostage negotiators, SWAT, and personnel from the various Investigative Divisions, responded to the area.

After several failed attempts in making contact with the individual through phone calls and the use of a bullhorn, Jackson Police SWAT, utilizing a robot, navigated the interior of the apartment encountering an individual, who was later identified as Bruce Durham, who appeared deceased.

Jackson Police SWAT Officers then made entry into the apartment to secure the area for the arrival of Emergency Medical Service Personnel.

The preliminary investigation thus far has not revealed any evidence that shots fired by the JPD contributed to this incident. Mr. Durham’s wounds are consistent with being self-inflicted.

The investigation into this incident is ongoing.

(PHOTO: JPD responds to call at 112 Rhone Street)