Authorities in Mississippi have released new details about a shooting that left a Covington County deputy injured and sparked a lengthy manhunt that ended with the arrest of two brothers.

The incident began Monday afternoon in Mount Olive during what officials described as a routine traffic enforcement operation. Deputy Yates Rodney was conducting a seatbelt compliance check when he attempted to stop an SUV.

According to investigators, the driver refused to stop and instead fled the area, leading law enforcement on a pursuit along Highway 49. The chase continued until the SUV became stuck near a muddy driveway close to a Cash Saver store.

What happened next quickly transformed a routine traffic stop into a major criminal investigation.

Authorities say that after the vehicle came to a halt, a passenger exited the SUV. Moments later, gunfire erupted.

Investigators allege that the passenger fired at Deputy Rodney, striking the edge of his ballistic vest. Officials believe the protective equipment played a crucial role in preventing even more serious injuries.

A second deputy at the scene immediately returned fire. During the exchange, both suspects fled on foot into a nearby wooded area, prompting an urgent search operation involving multiple law enforcement agencies.

The shooting triggered a massive response from local and regional authorities. Officers established a perimeter and began searching the surrounding area while residents were urged to remain vigilant.

As daylight faded, search teams continued combing through heavily wooded terrain. K9 units, deputies, investigators, and other specialized personnel participated in the operation.

The manhunt ultimately lasted approximately ten hours.

According to law enforcement officials, the breakthrough came when K9 teams tracked the suspects to a residence on Bluff Street. Authorities say the two men were discovered hiding underneath a house.

Both suspects were taken into custody without further incident.

Investigators later identified the men as brothers Cortavius Hobbs and Contavian Hobbs.

Authorities allege that 18-year-old Cortavius Hobbs was the individual who fired the shot that struck Deputy Rodney. He is now facing two counts of attempted first-degree murder.

Meanwhile, 19-year-old Contavian Hobbs has been charged with accessory after the fact and felony fleeing, according to investigators.

Officials have not released additional details regarding a possible motive for the shooting, and the investigation remains ongoing.

The case has drawn significant attention across Mississippi due to the violence directed toward a law enforcement officer during what began as a routine traffic stop.

Community members have expressed concern about the incident while also voicing support for Deputy Rodney and his family.

Fortunately, authorities report that Deputy Rodney survived the encounter and is continuing his recovery.

He is currently receiving treatment at a hospital in Hattiesburg. Officials say his condition is stable, and he is able to communicate with medical staff and family members.

Law enforcement leaders praised the deputy’s actions and credited his protective equipment for helping save his life.

The arrests brought relief to investigators who spent hours searching for the suspects, but officials emphasize that the legal process is only beginning.

Both brothers are expected to appear before a judge at 10:30 a.m. the following morning. During those proceedings, prosecutors are expected to formally outline the charges against them.

As the case moves forward, investigators continue gathering evidence, reviewing witness statements, and examining the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Authorities have reminded the public that all criminal charges remain allegations at this stage. Cortavius Hobbs and Contavian Hobbs are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

For now, the focus remains on Deputy Rodney’s recovery and the ongoing investigation into a case that has shocked Covington County and attracted attention throughout the state.