Meridian Police Officer Shot and Killed, Suspect on the Run

31-year-old Dante Marquez Bender

In an officer-involved shooting that happened around 5:30 this evening, Lauderdale County Corner, Clayton Cobler has confirmed that the officer has died.

The incident happened in the 2100 block of 51st Avenue and began as a disturbance call-in. According to the Meridian police department, the initial officer alerted over the radio that shots had been fired.

Once the other officers arrived, they found that the initial officer had been shot.

The officer was transported to Anderson Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.

It has been confirmed that a woman was also shot at the house on 51st Avenue. She was pronounced dead on the scene.

31-year-old Dante Marquez Bender has been identified as the suspect. He is said to be driving a 2004 Black Nissan Armada with the tag reading “IMANI”.

Bender is described as being armed and dangerous. If you know the whereabouts of Bender, you are asked to call 1-855-485-8477 (TIPS)

The Meridian police department will be holding a press conference Friday morning.