A long-time Alabama county commissioner has died after what is believed to be an accidental gunshot wound. The incident occurred on Wednesday, February 9.

According to a press release from the Demopolis Police Department, after returning home from deer hunting, Marengo County Commissioner Freddie Armstead, 76 was at his residence getting his rifles out of his truck when one of the rifles accidentally discharged.

He was transported by ambulance to Whitfield Memorial Hospital and was being treated when he succumbed to his injuries.

Commissioner Armstead has been a County Commissioner and a community leader for many years. He served District One for 36 years, and was running for re-election in the May primary.