Terry Clark Hughes Jr. Suspect Deaths 4 Officers Charlotte Police Say

Terry Clark Hughes Jr. opened fire, killing four police officers in Charlotte, North Carolina. Tragic incident sends shockwaves through community.

On April 29, 2024, tragedy struck in Charlotte, North Carolina, as a suspect named Terry Clark Hughes Jr. opened fire on law enforcement officers. The incident took place in the 5000 block of Galway Drive in the North Tryon Division. The suspect, identified as 39-year-old Terry Clark Hughes Jr., tragically took the lives of four police officers. Among the victims were officers from both the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force.

The U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force was conducting an investigation at a home on Galway Drive when the suspect opened fire. The officers were attempting to serve active felony warrants on the male subject when he discharged his firearm, striking multiple officers. The situation quickly escalated as more officers arrived on the scene and were also shot by the suspect.

In total, eight officers were struck during the gunfire. Tragically, three task force officers and one CMPD officer, Joshua Eyer, lost their lives as a result of the shooting. Officer Eyer, a 6-year veteran, fought bravely for his life before succumbing to his injuries. The CMPD paid tribute to Officer Eyer, highlighting his dedication and sacrifice in the line of duty.

Following the shooting, negotiations began with other occupants in the house where the suspect had been located. Two females exited the residence and were transported for questioning. The suspect, Terry Clark Hughes Jr., was pronounced deceased at the scene. Hughes was wanted for multiple felony counts, including possession of a firearm by a felon and felony flee to elude charges.

The response to the shooting involved multiple law enforcement agencies and departments, including the CMPD, U.S. Marshals Office, and North Carolina Department of Adult Correction. The investigation into the incident is being led by CMPD's Homicide Unit, with the Internal Affairs Bureau conducting a parallel investigation.

The tragic events of that day left a lasting impact on the community, with two 14-year veterans of the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, Sam Poloche and Alden Elliott, losing their lives. The investigation is ongoing, and more information will be released as it becomes available. This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty.