NATCHEZ, Miss. (WJTV) – Adams County deputies are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred at the Shell gas station in the Washington community.

The shooting happened at the gas station in the 700 block of Highway 61 North just before 7:30 p.m. on Friday, October 25.

Adams County Sheriff Travis Patten said a deputy, who was about one block away, was stopped by a passing driver and was informed that people were shooting at each other at the gas station.

When deputies arrived, the unidentified suspect was found sitting by the gas pumps and was detained. Patten said a semi-automatic firearm was seized. Deputies said one victim, who was identified as James Keating, was found deceased inside the store.

Patten said the shooting appears to be a “senseless act of violence.” According to the sheriff, the alleged shooter had placed a cup of ice down while inside the store with other customers. He said Keating entered the store to retrieve a few drinks and accidentally knocked the cup over.

During an argument, Patten said the suspect implied he had a weapon, but he never pulled or pointed it at the victim. The sheriff said Keating left the store, retrieved a handgun, and confronted the suspect inside the store. According to Patten, the two men got into a physical fight, and the suspect shot Keating multiple times.

Patten said he has consulted the District Attorney’s Office and requested the next grand jury to consider the case to determine the appropriate charges or whether the homicide was justifiable.