WELSH, La. — Louisiana State Police detectives continue the investigation into the deputy-involved shooting that occurred on Louisiana Highway 99 north of Welsh on Friday, January 10. The suspect was identified as Mark Buller, 44, of Iowa.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy stopped to assist Buller, who was walking on LA 99 in rainy and cold weather in a poorly lit area. During the encounter, a scuffle occurred. Buller was able to gain possession of the deputy’s Taser and use it against him before attempting to take the deputy’s patrol car. The deputy then fired his gun, but did not strike Buller.
Responding deputies and officers soon arrived on the scene and were able to take Buller into custody without further incident. Both the deputy and Buller were brought to area hospitals for injuries not considered life-threatening that were received during the scuffle.
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WELSH, La. (LSP/NEWS 15) — Detectives with the Louisiana State Police Criminal Investigations Division were requested by the Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office to investigate a shooting involving a deputy that occurred near the intersection of LA 99 and LA 102 on Friday, January 10, shortly after 9 p.m. Investigators are working to process the scene and gather further information. One deputy was taken to an area hospital with injuries not considered life-threatening. One person is in custody.
The Jeff Davis Parish Sheriff's Office identified the deputy as Sgt. Josh Clement. Sheriff Kyle Miers said Sgt. Clement is recovering well from his injuries.
It was later found that Buller had an active warrant through Jeff Davis Sheriff’s Office for failure to register as a sex offender and simple burglary.
Louisiana State Police is investigating the deputy firing his weapon while JDPSO is investigating Buller.
Buller was booked into the Jeff Davis Parish Correctional Center on the following charges:
- Attempted first-degree murder
- Attempted disarming of a police officer
- Disarming of a police officer
- Aggravated second-degree battery
- Resisting a police officer with force or violence
- Attempted theft of a motor vehicle
He is being held without bond.
Both investigations are active and ongoing.
