A Warren County, Miss. Sheriff's deputy died Tuesday as a result of injuries sustained in a wreck during a February ice storm.
Deputy Johnny Gatson, 58, was pronounced dead at River Region Medical Center and an autopsy revealed that a blood clot related to injuries from the crash was the cause of death, according to The Vicksburg Post.
Gatson was southbound on Oak Ridge Road on Feb. 23 when his vehicle struck a patch of black ice and struck a tree after leaving the road.
The deputy broke his left leg just below the kneecap and was released from the hospital with a leg brace and crutch. He was expected to return to work within a few weeks.
Officials say he began complain of shortness of breath at his home on 4 p.m. Tuesday. He went to lie down and became unresponsive. Paramedics arrived, but were unable to revive him.
"He was a very courteous and professional officer who will be deeply missed by his brothers and sisters in the sheriff's office and by the citizens of the community," Sheriff Martin Pace told the newspaper.
The 15-year veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps joined the Warren County Sheriff's Department in August 2013.
Gaston leaves behind his wife, Deborah.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
