CLINTON – A woman was shot by law enforcement officers Tuesday morning after she reportedly stabbed a deputy sheriff in the leg. It started around 2:44am, when Sampson County deputies were dispatched to a report of a suspicious person on S. Main Street in Salemburg.
The homeowner on S. Main Street reported a woman driving a green Saturn passenger car was parked on his property and was repeatedly sounding the vehicle’s horn. The caller also reported seeing the female outside of her vehicle with a knife shouting “someone was out to get her.”
As Sampson County deputies were arriving at the scene, they observed the vehicle leaving. Deputies attempted to initiate a traffic stop, however, the suspect failed to yield. Deputies pursued the suspect into Bladen County, where deputies with the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office were able to provide additional assistance and successfully deployed stop sticks. Soon afterwards, the suspect stopped her vehicle in the front yard of a residence on E. Oak Street, just outside of White Lake.
While deputies were attempting to detain the suspect, she reportedly displayed a knife and at some point, stabbed a Sampson County deputy in the leg. Deputies from the Sampson County and Bladen County Sheriff’s Office discharged their service weapons striking the female suspect.
A canine at the location was also tragically struck during the encounter and succumb to its injuries.
The female suspect was transported by ambulance to the New Hanover County Emergency Department to be treated for injuries sustained during the incident.
The injured Sampson County Deputy was transported by an officer to the Sampson County Emergency Department where they received treatment for minor injuries and has since been released.
The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations is investigating the incident, which is standard protocol for an officer involved shooting. The names of those involved has not been released.
“This incident underscores the unpredictable nature of law enforcement duties and the inherent risks involved. We extend our gratitude for the community’s patience and understanding as we work diligently to ensure public safety and uphold the integrity of our law enforcement efforts,” said Lt. Marcus Smith with the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office.
“We are profoundly grateful for the swift and effective assistance rendered by our counterparts at the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office during this challenging and dynamic situation. We ask for continued prayers for both agencies, our deputies, and a successful recovery for all involved,” Sampson County Sheriff Jimmy Thornton said.
The cops shot the dog? Have mercy mane.
I pray for the Deputy stabbed in the leg for full recovery and for all the other Deputies involved, but I sure do not pray for the woman. I am also sorry for the death of the Police Dog. I am also proud to support our LEO’s. They have a thankless job but are there for us when we need them. They also walk into danger when the rest of us run out. Thank you, all officers, everywhere for protecting us,