Hinds County, Mississippi sheriff’s deputy Joshua Adams, 37, has been arrested and charged with the murder of 25-year-old Justin Griffin, reports WLBT.com.
Griffin died Monday afternoon at the University of Mississippi Medical Center from blunt-force trauma to the head with internal bleeding, said Hinds County Coroner Sharon Grisham-Stewart.
Griffin and Adams, who was refereeing the game at the Mississippi Basketball and Athletics facility, allegedly began arguing over a call, said Jackson Police Department Assistant Chief Lee Vance.
The situation escalated, eventually leading to another deputy becoming involved.
According to eye-witnesses, Griffin, who was attempting to peacefully leave the scene, walked outside and was followed by Adams, who allegedly punched him in the head.
Both deputies, who have been suspended pending an investigation, were off duty.
“The case is still open and we’re still looking at information,” said Vance. “We know there was a second deputy that was involved, but right now, we’re not ready to file charges against that individual, but we have the person that we think is the most responsible at this point.”
WAPT reports that Adams was denied bond Tuesday.
Twitter Mourns Justin Griffin
News I just got about Justin Griffin just made me sick…met the kid at Terry High School praying for his family #RIPJustin—
Brett Jones (@JonesSince86) May 05, 2014
RIP Justin Griffin. You deserved better than this. Justice needs to be served. fb.me/1nws3kEpk—
Derian Knox (@DerianKnox) May 06, 2014
#jafrica needs to do more than tweet about Justin Griffin. I want DA Smith and Mayor Yarber to take a stand. #fb—
skipp coon (@skippcoon) May 06, 2014
Anyone that knew Justin, please go and support the Griffin family and stand behind his best friend,… instagram.com/p/nqVZ4RCNlF/—
Sheena Allen (@whoisSheena) May 06, 2014
These officers hide behind their badge these days. So sad about Justin.. Praying for the entire Griffin family.—
chronicles of spence (@sierratangoo) May 06, 2014
From my heart to the family and friends of Justin Griffin. #Justice4JGriff #ThePeoplesMissionContinues instagram.com/p/nqPOxWG17o/—
YoungGifted&Black✊ (@CJ_musick_lawya) May 06, 2014
RIP Justin Griffin. You were a great person. You will be missed by many. Fly high sweet boy!—
Megan McGowan (@Smleighlubsyou) May 06, 2014
Justin Griffin: Miss. Deputy Joshua Adams Charged With Murder Of Basketball Coach was originally published on newsone.com