Four members of law enforcement were tragically shot and killed, and four others were wounded while attempting to serve warrants in Charlotte, North Carolina. The incident occurred around 1:30 p.m. local time when the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force was serving active felony warrants for possession of a firearm by a felon and felony flee to elude on a male suspect at a residence on the 5000 block of Galway Drive in the city’s North Tryon Division.
The suspect, later identified as Terry Clark Hughes, Jr, 39, allegedly began firing at the officers, striking multiple individuals. The officers immediately called for backup as the suspect continued to shoot upon the arrival of more law enforcement officials. Hughes eventually exited the residence with a firearm, prompting officers to fire back in self-defense. Hughes was pronounced dead at the scene.
Eight officers were hit with gunfire and were rushed to local hospitals for treatment. Two females who were present at the residence were taken in for questioning by detectives. Tragically, three members of the task force succumbed to their injuries at the hospital. Among them were 14-year Department of Adult Corrections veterans Sam Poloche and Alden Elliott. The third officer’s identity was not immediately disclosed.
North Carolina’s Secretary of Adult Corrections, Todd Ishee, expressed his condolences, stating that Poloche and Elliott were dedicated to their work and passionate about protecting their communities. Poloche leaves behind a wife and two children, while Elliott is survived by his wife and one child.
Charlotte-Mecklenberg Police Officer Joshua Eyer, a six-year veteran of the force, was critically injured and later passed away from his injuries. He is survived by his wife and 3-year-old child. Four other law enforcement officials were also injured in the shooting, but their names have not been released.
The bravery and sacrifice of the officers involved in the incident were commended by Charlotte-Mecklenberg Police Chief Johnny Jennings. He emphasized the courage displayed by the responding officers in the face of danger.
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper offered state resources to assist in the aftermath of the shooting, while an emotional Mayor of Charlotte, Vi Lyles, expressed her condolences and support for the families of the fallen officers. President Joe Biden and Attorney General Merrick Garland also extended their sympathies to the families of the officers who lost their lives.
The tragic events in Charlotte serve as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers across the country. An investigation into the incident is ongoing as the community mourns the loss of these brave individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.