Tragedy Strikes Charlotte: Four Officers Killed, Four Injured in Shootout

**Headline:** Tragedy Strikes Charlotte as Four Officers Killed and Four Injured in Shootout

**Lead:** Monday marked a dark day for Charlotte, as four officers lost their lives and four more were injured while working to keep the city safe. The incident occurred during a shootout in east Charlotte, where officers were serving a warrant.

**Body:**
The chief of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department confirmed that an officer from the department and three members of the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force were killed in the line of duty. CMPD Officer Joshua Eyer was critically wounded before succumbing to his injuries at the hospital. He leaves behind a wife and a 3-year-old son.

Two of the task force officers were identified as Sam Poloche and William “Alden” Elliott with the North Carolina Department of Adult Corrections. Four other law enforcement officers, including three from CMPD, and another agent with the task force were also wounded in the shooting.

The suspect, Terry Clark Hughes, Jr., 39, was found dead at the scene. Chief Johnny Jennings revealed that Hughes was wanted for possession of a firearm by a felon and felony fleeing to elude out of Lincoln County, and that he used a “high-powered rifle” in the attack.

President Joe Biden issued a statement expressing condolences and support for the officers and their families. Governor Roy Cooper also offered state resources to assist in the aftermath of the tragedy.

The community has come together to support those affected, with a GoFundMe page set up by Back the Blue. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to gather more information about the incident.

The city of Charlotte mourns the loss of these brave officers and honors their service and sacrifice in protecting the community. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the fallen officers during this difficult time.