The Miss-Lou almost lost one of its finest in a shootout with a suspect in a robbery Thursday in Vidalia.

Despite taking a bullet, Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office Deputy Walter Mackel is recovering in University Medical Center in Jackson and is in good spirits, his friends and family members report via social media.

In the confrontation in which the suspect shot first, investigators say, Mackel was able to get a round off which likely was the cause of the suspect’s death.

Mackel is not only a great public servant on CPSO force, but he also is genuinely friendly and helpful man.

Whether he is relocating errant alligators from people’s yards or responding to a traffic accident, Mackel always does his job with dignity and perhaps a little sense of humor.

Mackel also is a family man.

The community has rallied behind Mackel and his family in this time of need and it is a testament to the good will Mackel has inspired from his fellow citizens through his years of service.

We are saying a prayer for Mackel and his family tonight and wishing for a full and speedy recovery.

Get well soon, Mackel. Thank you for your service.