An off-duty state trooper was shot and killed early Friday morning while working as an independent contractor delivering the mail for the U.S. Postal Service.

Adams County Coroner Jame Lee said Lt. Troy Morris, 58, was shot and killed this morning while working a part-time job on his mail truck near the Adams County, Jefferson County line.

“It appears that he was changing a flat tire on U.S. 61 leaving Fayette,” Lee said. “I arrived at the scene around 8:45 a.m. after being notified by the Jefferson County coroner, who is on medical leave.

“The State Crime Lab also called me about working the case in Jefferson County.”

Lee said everyone was noticeably heartbroken over the death of their fellow comrade.

“Troopers from around this state were vehemently searching for clues and leads to direct them to a possible suspect. The State Crime Lab sent a team of forensic experts to work the crime scene,” Lee said. “This is a sad day, not only for law enforcement but family and friends of Lt. Morris. My deepest sympathy and prayers.”

“The body of Trooper Morris was escorted under heavy guard to the Mississippi Crime Lab where he will have an autopsy today,” Lee said. “I can’t believe someone would gun down a police officer like that.”

Jefferson County Sheriff James Bailey told WLBT news reporters that the shooting happened near 4 a.m. A suspect in the shooting remains at large.