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NATCHEZ – An officer-involved shooting took place on National Park Service land late Sunday, though officials are unsure at this time whether that fact will affect the outcome of the investigation and resulting charges.

The Mississippi Bureau of Investigations is investigating the shooting, which left the suspect “critically injured,” according to a statement from MBI. In a follow-up statement, MBI said it will work in conjunction with the U.S. Attorney General’s Office to pursue charges in this case. Investigation is preliminary and ongoing.

Natchez National Historical Park Director Kathleen Bond, who had just learned about the incident on Monday morning, said she was not aware of any damage to the federal visitor center property because of the incident.

Natchez Police Chief Cal Green said it’s not often in Natchez that shootings occur at visitor reception areas, though the Natchez Visitor Center has been closed for some time for renovations.

“It’s upsetting to say the least,” Green said of the exchange of gunfire between police officers and Phillip Stokes Jr., 20, at approximately 10:20 p.m. on Sunday.

“This is not something that happens very often, and I thank God for it,” she said.

Officers were attempting to arrest Stokes, who is wanted for attempted murder charges stemming from a Friday shooting on Lafayette Street that injured a woman. Also arrested for the shooting on Friday was Willeshia Williams, who was charged with accessory after the fact of attempted murder.

However, as police were attempting to make the arrest, Stokes “shot at officers and officers returned fire,” Green said.

MBI officials said in a statement, “Officers were attempting to serve a warrant on the subject. Upon arrival to the location, the subject displayed a firearm, resulting in an exchange of gunfire between the subject and law enforcement officers. The subject sustained critical injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital. No officers were injured during the encounter.

“MBI is currently assessing this critical incident and gathering evidence. Upon completing the investigation, agents will share their findings with the Attorney General’s Office. This information is preliminary and subject to change.”