VAN ZANDT COUNTY, Texas — A Van Zandt County Sheriff's Deputy was killed and a Canton Police Department officer was injured Tuesday night, October 20, 2026, after a suspect allegedly opened fire on law enforcement officers attempting to serve felony arrest warrants at a residence south of Canton.
The shooting occurred in the 4300 block of State Highway 198, where deputies were assisting Canton police in locating a suspect wanted on aggravated assault charges.
According to preliminary information released by authorities, the suspect fired shots from inside the residence toward officers positioned outside. Law enforcement personnel returned fire, resulting in an exchange of gunfire that left the deputy fatally wounded and the Canton officer injured.
The suspect was subsequently found dead inside the residence from a gunshot wound.
The Texas Rangers are investigating the shooting.
Officers Attempt to Serve Felony Warrants South of Canton
The incident began at approximately 10 p.m. Tuesday when Van Zandt County Sheriff's Deputies assisted the Canton Police Department with a warrant service at a residence along State Highway 198, just south of the Canton city limits.
Authorities said the individual inside the residence was wanted on outstanding felony warrants issued through the Canton Police Department.
The warrants included:
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Aggravated Assault
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Aggravated Assault on a Peace Officer
Officials have not released the suspect's identity or provided details about the incidents that led to the outstanding warrants.
It is also unclear how many deputies and police officers were involved in the operation.
Suspect Opens Fire on Law Enforcement Officers
At approximately 10:22 p.m., law enforcement personnel at the scene reported gunfire coming from inside the residence.
According to the preliminary account, the suspect fired toward deputies and police officers who were positioned outside the home.
Officers returned fire.
During the exchange, a Van Zandt County Sheriff's Deputy and a Canton Police Department officer were struck by gunfire.
Authorities have not disclosed how many shots were fired, what type of firearm the suspect used or how long the confrontation lasted.
Van Zandt County Deputy Fatally Wounded
The Van Zandt County Sheriff's Deputy sustained fatal injuries during the gunfire exchange.
The deputy has been identified by Malakoff Mayor Nicole Mason-Driver as Adam Sherifi. Sadly, Deputy Sherifi leaves behind his wife and three children. One of those children was just born in September.
Sherifi's wife, Kyleigh, posted the following message on her social media account: "Adam my love. You were brave, you were strong, and you were kind. You laughed hard and you loved harder. I know you are in a better place now and watching over me and your babies. I love you so much more than I can put into words and I am so proud of the man you were. I will forever be greatful for the time I had with you and will continue to cherish the memories we made. You were an angel taken from us too soon. I love you forever and always."
The death represents a significant loss for the Van Zandt County law enforcement community, which includes the cities of Canton, Wills Point, Grand Saline and surrounding areas.
Canton Police Officer Transported to Hospital
A Canton Police Department officer was also injured during the shooting.
The officer was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment.
Authorities have not disclosed the officer's identity, the extent of the injuries or the officer's current medical condition.
The preliminary report did not indicate whether the officer underwent surgery or provide an expected recovery timeline.
Suspect Found Dead Inside Residence
Following the exchange of gunfire, law enforcement officers found the suspect deceased inside the residence.
Authorities confirmed the individual had suffered a gunshot wound.
Investigators have not yet disclosed whether the fatal wound resulted from law enforcement gunfire or another cause.
The suspect's identity has not been released.
Officials described the shooting as an isolated incident and emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Texas Rangers Investigating Deadly Shooting
The Texas Rangers have assumed responsibility for investigating the shooting.
The investigation is expected to examine the sequence of events, the gunfire exchanged between the suspect and law enforcement personnel, and the circumstances surrounding the deputy's death and the officer's injuries.
Authorities stressed that the information released so far is preliminary.
No additional details were immediately available.
North Texas Law Enforcement Agencies Express Condolences
Following news of the deputy's death, nearby police departments across North Texas expressed condolences and support for the fallen deputy's family, the Van Zandt County Sheriff's Office and the broader community.
Agencies also expressed concern for the injured Canton Police Department officer and offered prayers and wishes for a full recovery.
