Police-involved shooting early Wednesday leaves suspect dead

JACKSONVILLE, NC (WITN) – A man is dead after shooting at police early Wednesday morning, but several prisoners are safe, Jacksonville police said.

According to Jacksonville police, officers were called to a home at 701 New River Drive at 1:36 a.m. for a report of shots fired and a domestic violence incident.

According to officials, an armed man barricaded himself in the house along with six other people.

The police tactical team and negotiators were called to the situation and the six people managed to escape from the house through a side window.

While helping people get out the window, officials said the gunman exited the back of the house and opened fire. Officials said officers returned fire and struck and killed the suspect at the scene.

A statement from Police Chief Michael Yaniero said, in part: “This is a tragedy for everyone involved. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and officers affected. We understand and appreciate the public’s concern when an officer is faced with the difficult decision to defend themselves and others in a split second against an armed perpetrator.”

This is an active and ongoing investigation and will be turned over to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation.

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