Trooper Shoots, Kills Driver After Duplin County Pursuit

DUPLIN COUNTY, N.C. – The State Bureau of Investigation is investigating after a North Carolina State Highway Patrol trooper shot and killed a driver following a traffic stop and short pursuit late Tuesday night.

According to a preliminary Highway Patrol account, a trooper attempted to stop a vehicle for speeding at approximately 11:36 p.m. Sept. 15 in the area of N.C. 41 near Durwood Evans Road.

The driver did not stop for the trooper’s emergency equipment and a short pursuit followed, authorities said.

At the end of the pursuit, the driver reportedly got out of the vehicle and ran. The trooper chased the driver on foot and caught up with him.

The Highway Patrol said a violent roadside struggle followed and the trooper was assaulted before firing his service weapon, striking the driver.

The trooper immediately began life-saving measures until emergency medical personnel arrived, according to the Highway Patrol. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities said no other suspects are being sought.

The trooper was identified as Master Trooper Connor Davis, a seven-year Highway Patrol veteran assigned to Duplin County.

Trooper Davis was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The Highway Patrol did not disclose the extent of his injuries.

The name of the driver had not been released while authorities work to notify his next of kin.

In accordance with Highway Patrol protocol following a trooper-involved shooting, Davis was placed on administrative duty.

The SBI is conducting an independent investigation into the shooting.