OSBI investigating Choctaw County shooting

The Choctaw County Sheriff’s Office has requested OSBI investigate an officer-involved shooting in that county.

At approximately 5:30 this morning, the Choctaw County Sheriff’s Office received a report that a man in the town of Rufe, in rural Choctaw County, was shooting at neighbors.

At approximately 9:30 a.m., a tactical team made up of of several county deputies and Hugo police officers responded to the scene located at 182 N. 4430 Road. Several OSBI agents in the area responded to assist the officers.

As officers approached Joseph Potts’ house, Potts, 51, shot at the officers from inside his home. An officer and a deputy were hit by gunfire. A short time later, Potts set his home on fire, walked outside his home, and, at some point, tried to grab an officer’s gun.

At least one officer shot and killed Potts. OSBI agents did not fire their weapons. Agents did, however, transport one of the wounded men to a waiting ambulance.

Both the Hugo police officer and sheriff’s deputy are being treated for multiple gunshot wounds.

Numerous OSBI investigative and crime scene agents are at the scene. When the investigation is completed, OSBI will deliver a comprehensive report to the district attorney. The district attorney will determine whether the shooting was justified.