A Person County deputy has been placed on administrative leave as state authorities investigate a fatal shooting that occurred Sunday evening in Person County, North Carolina. The incident unfolded around 6 p.m. at the intersection of Mt. Harmony Church Road and Cousin Road, where deputies responded to reports of a vehicle in a ditch and a man walking along the road brandishing a firearm and aiming it at passing drivers.

Escalation of Events

Upon arrival, deputies encountered the armed individual, who was reportedly waving his gun at vehicles and firing shots into the air. Bodycam and dashcam footage captured the tense confrontation as the man allegedly ignored repeated commands to halt and drop his weapon, instead advancing towards the deputies.

Use of Deadly Force

In response to the perceived threat, one of the deputies discharged their firearm, fatally injuring the man. Despite medical attention, the individual succumbed to their injuries. The identities of both the deceased and the involved deputies have not yet been disclosed to the public.

Ongoing Investigation

The Person County Sheriff’s Office has handed over all pertinent evidence, including dashcam and bodycam recordings, to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), which has assumed control of the inquiry. The circumstances surrounding the incident, including the sequence of events leading up to the use of deadly force, will be thoroughly examined by state authorities.

Conclusion: Seeking Transparency and Accountability

As the investigation into this tragic incident unfolds, the community awaits answers regarding the events that transpired. The outcome of the SBI’s inquiry will shed light on the actions taken by law enforcement personnel and provide clarity on the circumstances leading to the loss of life. Stay tuned for further updates as authorities work to ensure transparency and accountability in this matter.

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