The Canton Police Department issued a statement on April 28 regarding a shooting occurring in the City of Canton.

“On April 23, 2022, at approximately 12:30 a.m., the Canton Police Department was notified of a shooting that had occurred at a residence in the City of Canton. Officers from the Canton Police Department responded to the scene.

“On arrival, officers found 51-year-old Erik J. Hicks of Grand Saline, Texas, inside the residence. Hicks had suffered multiple gunshot wounds. Hicks was transported to a local hospital by E.M.S., where he died a short time later. Hicks’ body was transported to the Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences in Dallas for autopsy.

“A joint investigation involving investigators from the Canton Police Department and the Texas Rangers was launched. From the investigation, it was learned that Hicks had unlawfully forced entry into the residence. Hicks entered the residence, continued into living areas of the house, and confronted the homeowner. Hicks was armed with a handgun.

“The homeowner heard Hicks force entry into his residence, and saw that Hicks was armed with a handgun. The homeowner retrieved his own handgun. Hicks advanced into the residence, and the homeowner shot him multiple times.

“The homeowner that shot Hicks has not been charged. At the conclusion of the investigation, the case will be referred to the Van Zandt County Grand Jury for review.”

No further information will be released at this time.