Charlotte shooting: 3 law enforcement officers killed, several injured in North Carolina
Charlotte shooting: In an unfortunate and tragic incident, three officers including a deputy US marshal were fatally shot, and multiple other law enforcement officers sustained injuries on Monday during an attempt to serve a fugitive warrant in North Carolina.
The incident occurred as officers from a US Marshals task force were carrying out the operation, and gunfire erupted from inside a residence in a residential area of Charlotte.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police took to their official X handle and wrote, "The residence on Galway Drive is now clear, and the area is safe. Residents no longer need shelter in place. One suspect was found dead, and two other people were found in the home and are being held by police for questioning.”
Today, we tragically lost 3 U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force members in the line of duty. Five additional officers were struck by gunfire. This includes four CMPD officers and an additional officer from an assisting agency. One of our CMPD officers is still in critical… — CMPD News (@CMPD) April 29, 2024
"Numerous law enforcement officers struck by gunfire in active situation," the department had said earlier on X.
"The US Marshals Fugitive Task Force which is comprised of several agencies in the Charlotte area was attempting to serve a warrant" when shots were fired, according to another X post from the police department.
"Multiple law enforcement officers have been struck by the gunfire and are being transported to the hospital," police previously said.
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
Meanwhile, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools implemented a lockdown for four schools during afternoon dismissal, which was later lifted in the late afternoon, as confirmed by the district. Police advised individuals to avoid the neighborhood and urged residents to stay indoors. Governor Roy Cooper of North Carolina stated that he had been in communication with Charlotte law enforcement and offered state resources to assist.
Following the tragic events, Mayor Vi Lyles of Charlotte expressed deep sorrow, offering heartfelt condolences to the officers and their families affected by the incident. Lyles called upon the community to come together in solidarity, offering support and prayers for all those affected by this distressing event.
- With inputs from agencies