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MANHUNT for gunman who fatally shot police officer nearing retirement in precinct parking lot
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An off-duty Mississippi officer was reportedly gunned down outside police headquarters Sunday night, prompting an ongoing manhunt for the gunman.

Officials have identified the slain officer as Robert McKeithen, 58, a 24-year veteran of the Biloxi Police Department. The suspect shot McKeithen multiple times in the Lopez Quave Public Safety Center’s parking lot before taking off, according to ABC News.

A severely wounded McKeithen was transported to a hospital in Biloxi and later pronounced dead.

According to the report, Biloxi police Chief John Miller revealed that McKeithen was planning to retire at the end of this year. He said it’s unclear what preceded the 10 p.m. shooting.

Authorities provided a still image of the suspected gunman—in addition to a video apparently showing him walking into police headquarters and smiling at an officer in the lobby.

The suspect was described as being 5 feet 7 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall and wearing a black T-shirt, navy shorts, and a red skull cap.

AL.com reported that police helicopters and ground units combed the area last night for the suspected cop killer.

“The animal that did this is still on the run. and we’re going to do everything within our power to bring him to justice for Robert and his family and for the men and women in the police department and for the citizens of Biloxi,” Miller said.

[Featured image: Robert McKeithen/City of Biloxi; Handout]