Gerald Buster Bates Obituary, Death; Woman charged in shooting that killed firefighter
Gerald Buster Bates Obituary, Death; – Bond was refused on Monday for a woman accused in the fatal shooting of a Jackson firefighter, which was followed by a confrontation with the police. The Jackson Police Department was called to a residence on Ferguson Drive on Sunday after receiving a report of an unresponsive individual.
According to Jackson Police Chief Joseph Wade, Tammie Williams, 48, barricaded herself inside the residence after allegedly shooting veteran firefighter Gerald “Buster” Bates. Various law enforcement agencies, including Capitol police, the Hinds County Sheriff’s Office, and the Byram Police Department, were called to the scene to support JPD.
Despite efforts to negotiate with Williams for over an hour, she refused to cooperate and was armed with a gun inside the house. Wade stated that S.W.A.T was called in and tear gas was used before officers entered the residence and apprehended Williams.
Authorities reported that an aggressive dog was also killed during the incident. Bates was also a member of the Byram Fire Department. According to the police, Williams and Bates resided together at the residence. Gerrica Bates, the victim’s daughter, mentioned that the couple’s 10-year relationship was marked by violence. She recounted several instances where Williams threatened her father’s life. “She repeatedly told me that she intended to harm my father. She was determined to put up a fight, and she followed through on her threats,” Gerrica Bates stated. “He prioritized her over us. That’s how much he loved her. Yes, and this is what she did.”
During the court hearing on Monday, a judge denied bail for Williams, citing her refusal to surrender when requested by the police on Sunday as evidence that she poses a significant threat to the community. “He did not deserve that. He did not deserve that at all,” Gerrica Bates expressed. The Bates family highlighted his dedication to becoming a firefighter and now intends to seek justice.
