Three law enforcement officers lost were killed in a shooting incident while attempting to execute a warrant at a home in Charlotte, North Carolina. Among the casualties were one deputy US Marshal and two local task force officers, according to authorities.
During a Monday evening news conference, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Johnny Jennings said that a total of eight law enforcement officers were wounded in the incident.
He stated that the shooting occurred on Galway Drive in the 5000 block as members of the US Marshals Fugitive Task Force were executing a warrant for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Upon their approach, they faced gunfire from a "high-powered rifle," prompting them to return fire, resulting in the fatal shooting of a suspect in the front yard of the residence. The warrant had been intended for that particular individual.
“As officers approached, they received additional gunfire from inside the residence,” stated the police chief.
Three members of the US Marshals task force lost their lives, Jennings confirmed, with one identified as a deputy US Marshal. Four Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officers were also wounded, one of whom is in critical condition and "fighting for his life" in the hospital. The remaining officers are reported to be in stable condition.
Out of respect for the families involved, the chief refrained from disclosing the names of the officers. He also mentioned that two individuals are currently being questioned by the police as "people of interest." Upon the clearance of the residence, a 17-year-old and a woman emerged, although Jennings couldn't confirm if either of them was a suspect.
“We are very early in the investigation,” he added. “CMPD will lead this investigation, we still have a lot to uncover, a lot of questions that are not answered right now.”
The police chief characterized the shooting as "the most tragic one" he had encountered in his 32-year law enforcement career. He remarked, “Historically, I can’t imagine that there’s one that’s any worse than what we’re seeing today" in the Charlotte area.
Authorities lifted the shelter-in-place order for residents on Monday afternoon after clearing the scene. Earlier, the department had alerted the public about “numerous law enforcement officers struck by gunfire in active situation.”
Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles expressed her profound sorrow over the incident involving Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officers and US Marshals.
“I ask that all Charlotteans keep them, the other injured officers, and their families in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time,” Lyles said.
