A Natchez man is facing an attempted murder charge after authorities say he fired multiple rounds at his adult son during a domestic dispute Thursday before barricading himself inside a home with his wife and later surrendering to law enforcement.
According to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a reported shooting at a residence on Canvas Back Court on Thursday, July 9.
Investigators identified the suspect as 64-year-old Ben Thames of Natchez. Authorities allege Thames fired multiple rounds at his adult son during the incident. The victim suffered minor injuries and was able to escape to a nearby residence, where he called 911 for help.
When deputies arrived, investigators said Thames had barricaded himself inside the home with his wife, who was being held against her will. Authorities said Thames was armed with a long gun and other firearms.
Before officers could fully secure the residence, Thames reportedly fled through the back of the home in a Chrysler 300 and drove toward the Kingston area.
An investigator with the Adams County Sheriff’s Office established telephone contact with Thames and persuaded him to return to the residence, where he surrendered without incident. Members of the Adams County Sheriff’s Office and the Natchez Police Department took Thames into custody. The Mississippi Highway Patrol had also been requested to assist but was no longer needed after Thames surrendered peacefully.
Thames has been charged with one count of Attempt to Commit Murder under Mississippi Code § 97-1-7(2). The Sheriff’s Office said additional charges are expected as the investigation continues.
Authorities said the victim’s injuries are believed to be minor. Investigators are still working to determine whether the injuries resulted from a grazing gunshot wound or from debris caused by a projectile striking a nearby object.
Sheriff Travis Patten praised the response of the officers involved in bringing the situation to a peaceful conclusion.
“This situation had the potential to end in tragedy for everyone involved. I am grateful for the quick actions of our deputies, the assistance provided by the Natchez Police Department, and the calm, professional efforts of our investigator who was able to convince the suspect to surrender peacefully. Incidents involving domestic violence and firearms are among the most dangerous calls law enforcement responds to,” Patten said.
The investigation remains active, and the Adams County Sheriff’s Office said additional charges may be filed as investigators continue gathering evidence.
The Sheriff’s Office also reminded the public that domestic disputes can escalate quickly and urged anyone experiencing domestic violence or who believes they are in immediate danger to call 911 immediately.
All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
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