Drew police chief indicted in 2022 Southaven restaurant shooting

Sept. 15, 2024 – DeSoto County District Attorney Matthew Barton this week announced that Drew Chief of Police Terry Tyler has been indicted on charges of aggravated assault related to a shootout that took place at a Southaven restaurant in 2022. The indictment follows an investigation conducted by the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI). 

The incident in question involved a confrontation that escalated into gunfire, resulting in significant public concern and prompting a thorough examination by the MBI. After a comprehensive review of the evidence, which included witness statements, forensic analysis, and police reports, a DeSoto County Grand Jury issued an indictment against Chief Tyler. 

Tyler was arrested and booked into the DeSoto County Adult Detention Center on Friday, Sept. 13 and released on $250,000 bond about 12 hours later.    

“This indictment demonstrates our commitment to holding everyone accountable under the law, regardless of their position,” Barton said. “No one is above the law, and  the integrity of our legal system demands that we address misconduct wherever it is found. We  trust the legal process will reveal the truth, and we will continue to pursue justice in an impartial and thorough manner.” 

Drew is a small town of about 1,900 people in northern Sunflower County about an hour and a half from Southaven.