Charlotte, North Carolina witnessed a tragic incident on Monday as four law enforcement officers lost their lives in a shooting while attempting to serve a warrant. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Johnny Jennings described the day as “an absolute tragic day for the city of Charlotte and for the profession of law enforcement.” The officers were part of a U.S. Marshals Service fugitive task force from different agencies trying to serve a warrant for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in east Charlotte.
The officers faced gunfire as they approached the individual at a residence, leading to a shootout. More gunfire erupted from inside the residence, sparking a prolonged standoff. Ultimately, the suspect, later identified as Terry Clark Hughes, Jr., 39, came out of the house armed and was shot by officers in the front yard, resulting in his death.
Following the standoff, a female and a 17-year-old were found inside the residence and brought to a police station for questioning as persons of interest. Authorities suspect that there were two shooters involved in the incident, including the individual killed in the initial shootout. A total of eight officers were shot during the confrontation.
The fallen officers were identified as a deputy U.S. marshal and two law enforcement officers from the North Carolina Department of Corrections, Sam Poloche and Alden Elliott. Poloche and Elliott, both 14-year veterans, made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
In a statement, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper extended his condolences to the families and colleagues of the fallen officers, acknowledging the brutal attack that took their lives. President Biden also expressed his condolences and support for the community, recognizing the officers as heroes who selflessly protected others.
Attorney General Merrick Garland expressed the Department of Justice’s profound sorrow at the loss of three law enforcement colleagues. As the investigation into the incident continues, the community mourns the tragic loss of these brave officers who dedicated their lives to serving and protecting others.