2 Deputies Shot in Pink Hill, North Carolina; Suspect Found Dead
Two Lenoir County sheriff’s deputies were shot Friday morning near Pink Hill, North Carolina, during a standoff with a suspected gunman who was later found dead inside a home, officials said. Both deputies are expected to survive, although one required surgery after being wounded in the shooting.
The Brief
The incident began around 11:15 a.m. Friday, October 2, 2026, when deputies responded to reports of a man shooting at passing vehicles from a home in the 700 block of Jonestown Road near Pink Hill.
When the first deputies arrived, the suspect reportedly came outside and opened fire, striking one deputy in the stomach. The suspect then went back inside the residence after an exchange of gunfire.
Additional law enforcement officers arrived and attempted to get the suspect to leave the home. Authorities said the suspect opened fire again, striking a second deputy.
Both wounded deputies were transported to ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville for treatment.
What We Know
Officials said neither deputy suffered life-threatening injuries. One of the deputies underwent surgery, while the other was also treated for injuries sustained during the shooting.
The situation developed into an extended standoff as law enforcement worked to secure the residence. Tactical officers used armored vehicles and other equipment while attempting to determine whether the suspect remained inside.
Authorities eventually deployed a tactical drone into the home. The drone located the suspected gunman deceased inside a bedroom.
Officials have not publicly detailed the exact circumstances or cause of the suspect’s death.
The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation is handling the primary investigation into the shooting. Investigators are expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the gunfire, the deputies’ response and the events that led to the suspect’s death.
The incident occurred in a residential area near Pink Hill, prompting a significant law enforcement response while authorities worked to contain the situation.
What’s Next
The NCSBI investigation remains ongoing. Investigators are expected to gather evidence from the residence and interview witnesses and responding officers as they reconstruct the shooting.
Authorities have not indicated that the public remains in danger from the incident. Additional information about the suspect, the deputies’ conditions and the circumstances surrounding the suspect’s death may be released as the investigation progresses.
The two deputies remain under medical care, with officials saying they are expected to survive.
