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A North Carolina deputy shooting teen incident has prompted a state investigation after a tragic confrontation in Lee County. Authorities say a 13-year-old boy, wanted for the killing of his grandmother, died after charging at a deputy with a piece of lumber.
The events began in Raeford, about 90 miles southwest of Raleigh, where deputies found 68-year-old Connie Linen dead inside her home. The Hoke County Sheriff’s Office classified the case as a homicide after responding to a well-being check. Detectives quickly identified Linen’s grandson as the prime suspect and prepared first-degree murder charges against him.
Deadly Encounter After Pursuit
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office later joined the search after learning of the homicide. Officers located the boy hiding behind an abandoned mobile home in the Cameron area. When deputies approached, the teenager ran.
During the chase, the teen grabbed a two-by-four piece of lumber from a yard and rushed toward a deputy. The officer opened fire, striking and killing him, officials said. Authorities described the teen as 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighing about 150 pounds.
The North Carolina deputy shooting teen case is now under review by the State Bureau of Investigation, which follows standard procedure in all officer-involved shootings.
Officials Urge Calm and Compassion
Lee County Sheriff Brian Estes and the State Bureau of Investigation have not yet released further details about the incident or the officer involved.
“This has been a tragic and emotional situation for everyone,” said Hoke County Sheriff Roderick Virgil. “We ask our community to come together with compassion and understanding as we process this difficult event.”
The sheriff’s office has not yet disclosed how Linen was killed or whether body camera footage exists from the shooting. Both departments said they would cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation.
Community Reacts to Tragedy
The deadly confrontation has reignited debate about police use of force against juveniles in North Carolina. Advocates are calling for transparency as the investigation unfolds.
As more details emerge, local leaders hope the review process brings clarity and closure to a community shaken by two connected deaths.
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