N.C. Deputy Shot During Traffic Stop; Suspect Caught After 11-Hour Manhunt
What to Know
- Authorities captured a man after an 11-hour manhunt and charged him with attempted murder after investigators said he shot a Columbus County sheriff’s deputy during a failed traffic stop and subsequent foot chase.
- The suspect allegedly crashed while fleeing from law enforcement, then exchanged gunfire during an encounter with a deputy, who was wounded and hospitalized in stable condition.
- Roughly 75 officers, deputies and troopers joined the search before the suspect was taken into custody and transported for treatment of undisclosed injuries.
“The suspect then fled the scene on foot. A Columbus County Sheriff’s Office Deputy encountered the suspect, an altercation occurred, resulting in the deputy sustaining a gunshot wound. The suspect then fled again on foot.”
Details of where Smith was found hiding have not been released.
“The suspect fled. A pursuit ensued. The suspect lost control of their vehicle resulting in a motor vehicle crash,” the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office said in a Sept. 16 news release.
The deputy is in stable condition at a hospital, officials said.
Seventy-five officers, troopers and deputies participated in the search for Smith.
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