In a devastating incident, four law enforcement officers were fatally shot and four others wounded while attempting to serve a warrant in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The situation unfolded in a suburban neighborhood where at least one suspected attacker was found dead following a three-hour standoff.
Authorities revealed that two armed suspects were involved in the assault, marking one of the deadliest attacks on US law enforcement in recent memory.
he officers, part of a US Marshals Service-led task force, were serving a warrant against a felon wanted for illegal firearm possession when gunfire erupted.
During the confrontation, officers exchanged fire with an assailant in the front yard, prompting additional shots from inside the residence.
Police Chief Johnny Jennings described the scene as officers tried to maintain safety amidst ongoing gunfire.
“This is a tragic loss of heroes who were dedicated to protecting our community,” Chief Jennings stated, highlighting the gravity of the attack.
He noted the unprecedented nature of the assault during his extensive law enforcement career.
The standoff continued for hours, with shots echoing in the residential area.
The assault concluded when police intervened, using armored vehicles to breach the home’s defenses.
Additional individuals inside the residence, including a woman and a 17-year-old boy, were being questioned as they were believed to have participated in the shooting.
Governor Roy Cooper expressed condolences, especially for the officers from the Department of Adult Corrections who lost their lives.
Among the fallen was Officer Joshua Eyer of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, recognized for his bravery and service.
Chief Jennings emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to understand the motives behind the attack.
The incident prompted lockdowns in nearby schools and disrupted traffic as emergency services responded to the scene.
Eyewitness accounts described the chaos and intensity of the shootout, highlighting the swift and impactful response by law enforcement agencies.
Mayor Vi Lyles conveyed deep sadness over the tragedy, acknowledging President Joe Biden’s condolences to the community.
Source-BBC
