Three members of the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force lost their lives during the execution of a search warrant in Charlotte, North Carolina, according to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Johnny Jennings.
In addition, five other law enforcement officers were wounded during the incident, which occurred on Monday.
The shooting took place as the task force was carrying out the warrant and encountered gunfire from a subject, police disclosed.
Chief Jennings mentioned that a “high-powered rifle” was used against the officers. The initial suspicion leading to the warrant was possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
The identity of the suspect, who was killed during the confrontation, has not been revealed.
Of the deceased officers, one was a deputy marshal. One of the injured officers belongs to the task force, while the other four are part of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, Chief Jennings clarified. One officer is in critical condition.
Later in the day, authorities confirmed that at least one deceased suspect was found at the residence. Two other individuals from the same home are being interviewed as persons of interest, one of whom is a juvenile.
Chief Jennings commended the bravery of the officers who responded, noting that they willingly confronted gunfire to protect others.
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper expressed solidarity with law enforcement and offered state assistance following the tragic incident.
Mayor Vi Lyles also conveyed her deep emotions, reflecting on the profound loss experienced by the community and the families affected.
Chief Jennings, with decades of experience, remarked that this day marked the most tragic event he had witnessed in his career.
