A fire at the Senatobia Police Department’s headquarters is under investigation.
The department reported that the blaze broke out around 4:30 a.m. on Saturday and damaged its main building. Officials did not identify the cause of the fire, nor did they say whether or not foul play is suspected.
The Senatobia Police Department has been at the forefront of the public spotlight following the June 14 shooting death of 1-year-old Kohen Wiley. Senatobia police officer Hunter Foster opened fire after an individual accused of shoplifting at the local Walmart drove a vehicle in the direction of law enforcement. The gunfire claimed Wiley’s life.
While Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch concluded that the officer’s use of force was justified, Wiley’s family and attorney Ben Crump maintain that the shooting was unnecessary. Foster has since resigned from his post as a police officer.
“Despite the damage to the building, the department continues to operate and provide police services without interruption,” a release from Senatobia Police Department said. “Public safety remains unaffected, and our officers remain committed to serving and protecting the community.”
The Senatobia Fire Department and the Tate County Sheriff’s Office are credited with responding to the scene after the fire.