Ville Platte, LA – Ville Platte Police Chief Perry Thomas was injured in an accidental shooting while responding to a call about a shotgun found in a backyard. The incident occurred on North Chataignier Street, where local residents, who are also family members of the chief, discovered the weapon and contacted the authorities.
Upon arriving at the scene, Chief Thomas attempted to remove the shotgun from its case. However, the firearm discharged accidentally, sending shotgun shells ricocheting off the concrete. One of the ricocheted shells struck Thomas in the back of the foot. The chief, who described the injury as minor and comparable to a mosquito bite, did not require medical attention and continued his duties, returning to patrol the streets shortly afterward.
In addition to the police chief, two homeowners were also injured in the incident. Both were struck in the leg by the shotgun blast and were treated at Mercy Regional Medical Center. The pair have since been released and are recovering at home from their non-life-threatening injuries.
The Evangeline Parish Sheriff’s Office has launched an investigation into the incident. Sheriff Charles Guillory confirmed that the shooting was accidental. He added that Chief Thomas was responding to a call from the homeowners, who had found the shotgun in their yard, when the discharge occurred.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accidental shooting, though no charges have been filed at this time.