SMITHFIELD – Police officers have increased patrols at the Town Commons on North Front Street adjacent to the Neuse River after a man reportedly pointed a shotgun at two people.
Around 12:30pm Tuesday, a 21 year-old woman and 26 year-old man finished walking on the Greenway trail. They began walking towards their car in the parking lot when a man yelled at them to get away from his vehicle. He then allegedly pointed a shotgun towards the couple. They immediately called 911.
Officers arrived quickly but the suspect had already fled. The suspect was described as a unknown age black male driving a greenish-blue older model GMC Jimmy SUV. Police said it appears the couple parked their vehicle near the suspect’s SUV and when they were approaching their car the incident occurred. No injuries were reported.
Currently there are no security cameras at the Town Commons. Town Manager Mike Scott said he has discussed the incident with Police Chief Keith Powell and it appears to be isolated.
“The historical crime information in this area does not warrant a recommendation for additional security measures, such as cameras, at this time. The greenway and boat ramp areas have historically been one of the safest public places in Town for the public to gather and play or exercise. Our police department will continue to investigate the situation with the goal of identifying who was involved and taking the necessary steps to see that justice is served. They will also be performing extra patrols of the area, as well as their daily patrols of the greenway,” Mr. Scott said Thursday.
Anyone who may have witnessed the incident on Tuesday or has information about the suspect is asked to contact the Smithfield Police Department at 919-934-2121 or the Police Tip Line at 919-989-8835. Callers may remain anonymous.
