MonticelloLive

Although this shooting took place in the central part of the state, I always want to give proper respect to the law enforcement officers who choose “To Protect, and To Serve”.An Arkansas Game and Fish Commission wildlife officer was injured yesterday during a shootout with a man suspected of illegal hunting.

Wildlife officer Matt Flowers, 29, of Maumelle was shot once in the chest during an altercation with a man Flowers suspected of illegally hunting in North Little Rock’s Burns Park.

Flowers was on a routine patrol along Young Road in North Little Rock when he saw Phillip Kelly,36, dressed in camouflage clothing.

The shooting took place at about 9 a.m. on Saturday.  Flowers was checking Kelly of North Little Rock, to see if he had been hunting in the area when the struggle broke out. He was able to return fire and hit Kelly with several shots.

Flowers was taken to an area hospital where he was treated for his injuries and released. He was wearing body armour which prevented any serious injuries. Flowers is a five year veteran of the AGFC.

The North Little Rock Police Department is investigating the shooting. According to NLR police officials, Kelly has been charged with attempted capital murder in the shooting. He is presently in a Little Rock hospital where he is under guard and recovering from his injuries.