(12-8-22) At around 12:30 p.m on Tuesday, Hardin County deputies responded to the 8000 block of Flora street in the Foraker, in response to a report of an accidental self-inflicted pellet gun wound. Billy Shears (45) was transported by ambulance to the Hardin Memorial Hospital where he would pass away.

An unidentified male, conne3cted to the scene, was arrested on charges of tampering with evidence and obstruction of official business, both charges are unrelated to Shears’ death.

The case remains under investigation by the Sheriff’s Office and the Hardin County Coroner’s Office.

Anyone with information should contact the department at 419-673-1268.