On Monday, four law enforcement officers were tragically killed in a shooting in Charlotte, North Carolina. The incident began when a U.S. Marshals Task Force attempted to serve a warrant for firearm possession by a convicted felon. Authorities report that the suspect, identified as 39-year-old Terry Clark Hughes Jr., opened fire on the officers, killing three of them and injuring eight others.
The shooting occurred at around 1:30 p.m. in the Shannon Park neighborhood. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) reported that “numerous” officers were shot at the scene. The injured officers were immediately transported to hospitals for treatment, but tragically, three of them succumbed to their injuries.
According to CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings, this incident is “the most tragic” he has been involved in during his 32 years with the department. He expressed his sorrow and condolences to the families of the fallen officers and emphasized the bravery and sacrifice of law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line every day.
Three CMPD officers and a U.S. Marshals Task Force officer were among the injured. The CMPD later confirmed that one of their officers had also died from their injuries. The names of the officers have been released as Deputy U.S. Marshal Thomas M. Weeks Jr., Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department officer Joshua Eyer, and North Carolina Department of Adult Correction officers Sam Poloche and William “Alden” Elliott.
Officer Joshua Eyer has passed away tonight from his injuries after being shot in the line of duty this afternoon while assisting other officers with the apprehension of a suspect. Officer Eyer faithfully served the CMPD’s North Tryon Division for six years and was a member of… pic.twitter.com/TwrINLkJUT
— CMPD News (@CMPD) April 30, 2024
Investigators believe that the initial shots were fired by the suspect, Hughes, who was also wanted for two counts of felony flee to elude in Lincoln County, North Carolina. Hughes was killed in the shootout, and police report that two persons of interest, a 17-year-old and a woman, are being questioned at the police station.
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper has expressed his condolences and offered state resources to assist with the investigation. The CMPD has also asked for cooperation from residents in the area, as many roads have been closed for faster ambulance transport.
Former FBI special agent and Fox News contributor Nicole Parker spoke out about the incident, emphasizing the bravery and sacrifice of law enforcement officers. She also called for support and respect for those who “courageously wear the badge” and carry out their duties fearlessly.
The CMPD has not released any further information about the incident or the suspects at this time. The investigation is ongoing, and the community has come together to mourn the loss of these brave officers. This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the dangers that law enforcement officers face every day in their line of duty. The loss of these four officers is a devastating blow not only to their families and colleagues but also to the entire community. As the investigation continues, our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of the fallen officers.
