After three days of deliberation a jury was unable to reach a verdict in the murder trial of former Bastrop County sheriff's deputy Daniel Willis, leading the judge to declare a mistrial.

The jury was split 8-4.

Last February, while responding to a domestic violence call, Willis shot and killed Yvette Smith. The former deputy now stands accused of her murder.

Immediately after the shooting, Willis claimed he shot because Smith had a gun and would not put it down.

PREVIOUS | Murder Trial of Former Bastrop County Sheriff's Deputy Begins

PREVIOUS | Bastrop County Sheriff’s Deputy Indicted for Murder in February Shooting

During the trial, prosecutors said Smith was not armed, though there was a gun nearby.

The defense argued that Willis believed she had a gun and that his life was in danger.

Prosecutors say Willis acted too quickly and was not in danger because he had backup on the scene.

After he was charged with Smith's murder, Willis was fired from the Bastrop County Sheriff's Office.

The county later settled a civil suit with Smith's family for over $1 million.

---

Join the Discussion:

Follow TWC News Austin on Facebook & Twitter

Follow TWC News San Antonio on Facebook & Twitter

---

More Stories of Interest: