LaGrange Suspect Shoots Self During Police Chase

An investigation into a series of vehicle break-ins results in a suspect shooting himself after an encounter with law enforcement.

According to Lewis County Sheriff David Parrish, his office had received multiple reports of vehicle break ins and burglaries in and around Canton since the beginning of April.

Then, Friday morning, several Lewis County residents reported their vehicles had been tampered with and items had been stolen from them, including jewelry, credit cards and hand guns.

An investigation led deputies to the home of 20 year old Austin Clark of LaGrange. Clark tried to run from authorities. As he was running, Clark took a handgun out of his waistband and shot himself.

Clark was taken to Blessing Hospital in Quincy for treatment.

Further investigation resulted in the recovery of two stolen handguns at the scene.