UPDATE: NC State Trooper killed during routine traffic stop
By WECT Staff | October 17, 2018 at 3:32 AM EST - Updated October 17 at 10:49 AM
COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WECT) - A North Carolina State Trooper was killed Wednesday morning after a shooting during a traffic stop.
According to First Sgt. Michael Baker with the State Highway Patrol, trooper Kevin Conner was shot while conducting a traffic stop for a speeding violation on U.S. 701 near Sellers Town Road in Columbus County. As Conner approached the vehicle, the suspect fired several shots, striking the trooper.
Conner died after being taken to a local hospital.
RAW: Media update on state trooper death
“At that time, the driver fled the scene and drove into Fair Bluff," Baker said in a media briefing. "The Fair Bluff Police Department attempted to stop the vehicle and a chase ensured. The driver of that white GMC became disabled on the railroad tracks in Fair Bluff off of Rogers St. A foot pursuit ensued and he was apprehended by authorities after an extensive search.”
District Attorney Jon David said the unidentified suspect will make his first court appearance at the Columbus County Courthouse at 2 p.m. Wednesday.
Conner was an 11-year veteran of the N.C. State Highway Patrol and was assigned to Troop B out of Columbus County.
“The Highway Patrol family is mourning the loss of a hero and will forever be changed by the tragic events that have occurred”, said Colonel Glenn McNeill Jr., commander of the State Highway Patrol. “We ask everyone to please keep Trooper Conner’s family and all who knew him in your thoughts and prayers.”
Governor Roy Cooper, in a phone interview Wednesday morning, said Conner’s death was a tragic reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face every day.
“This is such a tragic and senseless act of violence against one of our fine Highway Patrol troopers. Trooper Conner served his community and our state well and it just shows you the danger and risk that our law enforcement officers take every day when they step out to protect us and keep us safe,” Cooper said. “I know the entire Highway Patrol and law enforcement community…all are mourning today, as are North Carolinians across the state.”
Cooper said he has ordered that flags at all state buildings be flown at half-staff to honor Trooper Conner’s sacrifice and his life.
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