Deputy Sheriff Byford Henry Hunter

Byford Henry Hunter

Deputy Sheriff Byford Hunter was shot and killed while attempting to serve a misdemeanor warrant on a man with a history of resisting arrest.

During the incident, the suspect and the suspect's uncle assaulted Deputy Hunter and tried to gain control of his service weapon. Deputy Hunter was able to shoot and kill the suspect during the struggle but was shot numerous times by the uncle. As he retreated from the house, he was shot several more times in the back. He made it to his patrol and called for backup but succumbed to his wounds.

The uncle, who was wounded, fled the scene but turned himself in with his attorney later that day. He was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 12 years.

Deputy Hunter had served with the Angelina County Sheriff's Office for two years.