On April 29, 2024, a devastating incident unfolded in Charlotte, North Carolina, as an armed suspect opened fire on law enforcement officers in the 5000 block of Galway Drive in the North Tryon Division. The tragedy resulted in the loss of four Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) officers and three officers from the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force.
The events transpired around 1:30 p.m. as the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force, consisting of officers from various agencies, conducted an investigation in the North Tryon Division. Their objective was to serve active felony warrants on a male suspect residing in a home on Galway Drive.
However, upon approaching the residence, the suspect opened fire, injuring multiple officers. Despite immediate medical attention, four officers succumbed to their injuries, including CMPD Officer Joshua Eyer, a 6-year veteran.
Amidst the chaos, the suspect emerged from the residence, still armed, posing a grave threat to law enforcement. Officers on the scene responded swiftly, using lethal force to neutralize the threat and protect themselves and others.
Following the containment of the situation, negotiations began with occupants inside the residence. Two females exited peacefully and were transported for further questioning. The suspect, identified as Terry Clark Hughes, Jr., 39, was pronounced deceased at the scene. Hughes was wanted for multiple felonies in Lincoln County, North Carolina.
The response to the incident was swift and comprehensive, with numerous agencies collaborating to secure the scene and initiate investigations. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s Homicide Unit is leading the ongoing investigation, with support from various law enforcement entities.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event, the CMPD’s Internal Affairs Bureau will conduct a separate investigation, in accordance with standard procedures for officer-involved shootings.