SULPHUR, La. — A Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy shot a passenger during a traffic stop early Sunday morning in Sulphur after a brief foot chase and struggle in which the suspect gained control of the deputy’s Taser, according to information released by the agency.

The incident occurred shortly after 12:30 a.m. near East Napoleon Street and Willow Avenue. A sheriff’s deputy had pulled over a vehicle and was conducting a traffic stop when the situation escalated.

Traffic Stop Leads To Foot Chase

During the initial investigation, the deputy made contact with the driver and two passengers inside the vehicle, authorities said. At some point during that encounter, one of the passengers attempted to flee the scene on foot.

The deputy pursued the passenger, and a short foot chase followed. The chase ended when the deputy attempted to detain the individual, leading to a physical struggle.

Suspect Allegedly Gains Control Of Deputy’s Taser

During that struggle, the passenger was able to gain control of the deputy’s Taser, according to the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office. A Taser is a conducted-energy weapon used by law enforcement to stun and temporarily incapacitate a person through an electric charge.

Officials said the suspect attempted to discharge the Taser at the deputy. At that point, the deputy fired his service weapon, striking the suspect. No additional details about the number of shots fired, where the suspect was hit, or the identities of those involved have been released.

Medical Response And Current Condition

Medical personnel responded to the scene and provided treatment before transporting the suspect to a hospital. The individual is currently being treated, authorities said. No further information on the suspect’s condition, age, or any potential charges has been provided.

The sheriff’s office did not report any injuries to the deputy or to the vehicle’s other occupants in the information made public so far.

Louisiana State Police To Lead Shooting Investigation

At the request of Sheriff Stitch Guillory, the Louisiana State Police have been called in to investigate the deputy-involved shooting itself. Bringing in an outside agency is a common practice meant to add an extra layer of independence and transparency when an officer or deputy uses deadly force.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.